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The NASCAR arena is gearing up for a thrilling climax to the regular season. And amidst the excitement, a bold claim has emerged from one of the legends of Hendrick Motorsports. As the final playoff spot remains up for grabs at Daytona, the HMS legend turns his focus to Joe Gibbs’ prodigy Ty Gibbs and makes an audacious prediction about Bubba Wallace and his chances of clinching victory at this nail-biting showdown.

As the curtain draws on the regular season, drivers are gearing up for a showdown at Daytona International Speedway. However, the stakes are high, and the spotlight is on Bubba Wallace. The 23XI Racing driver stands on the threshold of his first-ever playoff berth. Wallace holds the provisional playoff spot by 32 points in the standings ahead of Ty Gibbs. So it’s not unusual that predictions are coming in from all the corners of the community.

Steve Letarte claims Bubba Wallace will visit the victory lane at Daytona on Saturday

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Amidst the high-speed chase for the remaining playoff spot, one voice stands out in the NASCAR arena?Steve Letarte. The HMS legend dissects the playoff landscape, turning heads with his surprising stand. This time, Letarte turns his back on Joe Gibbs’ prodigy, Ty Gibbs, suggesting the young contender’s point-based qualification for the playoffs is a tall order. But it’s his prediction regarding Bubba Wallace that has attracted a lot of attention.

Speaking to Nate Ryan and Parker Kligerman, Letarte explained why the Joe Gibbs Racing driver won’t make up the points gap with Bubba Wallace,

“I don’t think there’s any way Ty’s going to overcome him in points by 32. Seems reasonable. Only four times this season has Ty Gibbs scored more than 32 points in a race. So it would involve Bubba having a very bad day and Ty having a great day. Which is possible. But I see that as unlikely.

“In my mind, a new winner is the biggest opportunity. But I feel we’re going to leave Daytona with Bubba Wallace in the playoffs. I’m not completely shocked if it wasn’t Bubba Wallace in the playoffs and Victory Lane.”

Letarte’s resolute prediction of a Bubba Wallace triumph ignites anticipation. The significance of Daytona as a track where the 23XI Racing driver has thrived in the past adds intrigue to the unfolding drama.

READ MORE: ?I Hate That? ? Bubba Wallace Not Happy With 23XI Inability To Find the Final Piece of the Puzzle

Sitting on the cusp of a maiden playoff appearance, Wallace has demonstrated consistency throughout the season, placing him within the playoff bubble. Not only did he predict Wallace’s win, but Steve also offered him advice for Saturday.

Letarte advises Wallace to race like he has to win it

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Dirty Mo Media recently shared a podcast snippet on Twitter where Steve explained what advice he would give Wallace if he were Booty Barker. Drawing from his extensive experience, Letarte points out the need for a balanced approach. Letarte’s hypothetical message to Wallace is clear. This isn’t just Race 26, it’s the culmination of 25 weeks of effort.

The advice extends beyond points, acknowledging Bubba Wallace’s secure position over Ty Gibbs. Letarte advocates an assertive approach, focusing on preventing potential contenders from claiming the win. Let the boldness of Bubba’s driving style shine through but with calculated caution.

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“You know how we prevent that? We win this race,” Steve added. “Go be you. Go zig-zag. If we end up at a ball of fire at the end of the backstretch, then so be it. Make a note, that’s what he did at Talladega. For instance, he was going for a win and he wrecked. If we take three to go, and everyone around us is somebody who?s already won. Like don?t be so dumb, you drive yourself into a wreck you don?t need to. But I would race the race like we have to win it.”

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The Daytona track, where aerodynamics and drafting play a pivotal role, presents a golden opportunity for Wallace to elevate his game. Do you think Steve is right about Bubba Wallace winning the race? Let us know your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.

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