For 65-year-old Mike Wallace, dreams got shattered when he could not make it to the biggest American race, the Daytona 500. This came after NASCAR rejected his application to race for MBM Motorsports, citing Wallace’s inactivity in the racing world. While this could be a major shocker for most drivers, Mike, being the kind of racing lover he is, shouldn’t give up. 

At least, that is what his beloved brother Kenny Wallace has suggested. Mike’s disqualification has attracted widespread discussion, and once again, NASCAR is under scrutiny because of its abrupt decision. In a recent conversation, Kenny Wallace opened up more about how his brother Mike Wallace should react to this situation. 

Kenny cites Chrissy as an example of Mike Wallace 

NASCAR has been blunt for years and since the past couple of seasons, it has brought forth rules that have been quite debated. Recently, they declined the application of MBM Motorsports for Mike Wallace’s entry. The reason cited: Wallace did not get involved actively in the world of racing. Wallace’s last outing in the NASCAR Cup Series was at the 2015 Daytona 500. 

This is where he ended up finishing in the 36th while driving for Jay Robinson Racing. His most recent appearance in a national-level competition came in 2020. This stint included him competing in three Xfinity Series events with JD Motorsports. While the decision had initially caused a setback for him, Kenny Wallace, Mike’s brother, has some pearls of wisdom for him. He said, “But Charlie, I don’t need NASCAR to make me feel anything. I don’t need anything. I just need what I want, you know?”. 

Speaking to Charlie about the current situation and his advice to Mike, Kenny further added, “And my message, and I told Chrissy this and I’m going to tell Mike this: Mike, if you love racing like I do, go race. I mean, I’ve spent a million dollars. I did…built a shop up there…paid for my motors. I’ve spent a lot of money living my life out because I love racing….. So my answer to you was very long-winded, but I would tell Mike: Mike, if you want to race, let’s race”. 

Chrissy, Mike’s daughter, excelled in every vehicle she drove. With over 40 wins, she has been the only female to win a Super Late Model race at Hickory Motor Speedway. She claimed the 2005 Winter Heat Championship and made history in 2009 by finishing 13th at Talladega. Chrissy even outperformed her father in a National Touring Series race. However, despite her talent, Chrissy bid goodbye to her racing career. This decision came after she could not manage sponsorship for her NASCAR ventures. Kenny, being her uncle, had suggested that she should not give up, given her talent and prowess in the field.

Even Matt Wallace, Chrissy’s brother, had made it to NASCAR. Matt Wallace missed the chance to race in 2014 because his father, Mike Wallace, needed a top-5 finish at the Daytona night race. This would secure Matt a ride in JGL’s No. 93 car. Although Mike finished in the top 10, it fell short of the agreed condition. Consequently, he lost his seat and finally gave up on the tracks. Wallace encouraged Mike to continue racing if he truly loves it, emphasizing that NASCAR’s decision should not dictate his passion.

After all, for the Wallace family, their heart and soul lie in racing and a sudden decision should not be at the crux of Mike’s decision for discontinuation. 

NASCAR insider says it’s a “shame” that Wallace’s entry was rejected 

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When Mike Wallace announced he would be making an entry to the Daytona 500, it had made eyes turn for all. In fact, he would be the second oldest at 65 to participate in the prestigious crown jewel event. Driving the No. 66 Ford, this would have been iconic. However, after his plans were dismissed, Wallace received support from quite a few, even the NASCAR community itself. 

Recently, NASCAR journalist Toby Christie opened up about how this decision wasn’t the best. He said, “This is a shame, Mike Wallace was shaping up to be a really cool Cinderella Story if he could have made the field. #NASCAR”. Allowing a veteran driver like Mike could have been a game changer for him and allowed the driver a refreshed chance to pursue racing. 

Wallace’s presence could have brought a unique narrative to the event, showcasing the resilience and determination of a seasoned driver. Fans, too, were eager to see how Wallace’s experience and skill would fare against the younger field. After all, this would have added to the thrill of the event.