NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace has been no stranger to controversy and backlash from fans since he joined the sport’s top level in 2018. But after the recent NASCAR Cup Series race at Darlington Raceway, Wallace found himself at the center of attention yet again. This time, it was not because of anything he did wrong, but because of his frustration with NASCAR’s inconsistency.
The race at the Darlington Raceway on Sunday was filled with action and drama, with William Byron emerging as the winner. The final laps and overtime saw a series of front-pack accidents that jumbled the running order and frustrated those who were crashed out of contention.
Bubba Wallace expresses frustration after the Darlington disaster
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
With six laps to go, Ross Chastain and Kyle Larson crashed while racing for the lead on a restart, leaving the lead to Byron. Byron started the overtime restart in front of Kevin Harvick, Chase Elliott, Brad Keselowski, and Harrison Burton. As the green flag flew for the final time, Byron surged ahead of Harvick, led the final two laps, and won relatively easily.
Wallace has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind, and after finishing fifth at the Darlington Raceway on Sunday, he took to Twitter to express his frustration. In a tweet, he wrote, “Hard to accept a solid top 5 when the inconsistency is so consistent, mind boggled how we finished behind cars caught up in a wreck. What could’ve been…” along with a video showcasing a replay clip from the race.
Hard to accept a solid top 5 when the inconsistency is so consistent, mind boggled how we finished behind cars caught up in a wreck. What could’ve been…. pic.twitter.com/1qntzlNqBl
— Bubba Wallace (@BubbaWallace) May 15, 2023
WATCH THIS STORY: NASCAR Insider Takes a Stand Against Toxicity, Calling Out “Million Dollar” Negativity Towards Bubba Wallace
Fans bash Wallace after he shares his disappointment again
Trending
NASCAR Rumor: 66-YO Surprise Daytona 500 Winner Could Make a Return to NASCAR in 2025
Amid Sleepless Nights, Tony Stewart’s Wife Leah Reveals Their 1-Month-Old Son’s 4 ‘Responsibilities’
NASCAR Found Guilty by Law After Offending Michael Jordan’s Team in Antitrust Lawsuit
Shane Van Gisbergen Discloses a Major Problem in NASCAR After Leaving Supercars
1 Year After Heartbreak, Shane van Gisbergen Dominates Rivals in Dirt Track Return
While it’s not unusual for drivers to express frustration with their performance, Wallace’s comments didn’t sit well with some fans. Many took to social media to criticize the driver, with some accusing him of whining and making excuses.
The criticism comes after a tough race for Wallace, who struggled with inconsistency throughout the event. While he finished in the top five, Wallace was frustrated by his inability to capitalize on opportunities to win the race. The comments from fans have sparked a debate on social media about whether Wallace’s complaints are justified or if he should focus on improving his performance on the track.
One fan tweeted, “Whine some more. It’ll make you faster.”
Bubba you sure complain a lot.
— kim hofer (@mellowkim) May 15, 2023
Another wrote, “You weren’t winning anyways cry,” while a third chimed in with, “Here you go crying again.”
Bubba you were not gonna win anyway cause you would have been caught up in the 5 and 1 crash or something else. Listen your not in a Hendrick or Track House team. Your in a 2nd tier team.
— Timothy Meyers (@Timothy03726811) May 15, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The comments didn’t stop there, with some fans suggesting that Wallace was simply not a good driver and that he should stop blaming others for his lack of success.
Although many fans came to Wallace’s defence, stating that he has every right to express his frustrations with the race’s outcome and that the comments directed towards him were unfair and uncalled for. They argue that Wallace is a talented driver and has proven himself on multiple occasions, and he deserves respect and support from fans.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Overall, the NASCAR Cup Series race at Darlington Raceway provided plenty of excitement and drama for fans. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the various drivers adjust and adapt to the challenges that come their way.