Bubba Wallace has solidified his impressive racing career with 23XI Racing by securing a multi-year contract extension. Wallace, who has been with the team since 2021, will continue to drive the No. 23 Toyota, carrying forward his legacy with 23XI Racing. Despite narrowly missing out on the playoffs this season, Wallace has celebrated a number of victories since joining the team at iconic tracks such as Talladega and Kansas, cementing his position as a key player within the outfit.
In a statement from 23XI Racing's co-founders Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, they addressed their keen enthusiasm for Wallace's renewed commitment:
"From day one Bubba has been an integral part of 23XI. We're excited to announce that he has signed a multi-year renewal and will continue to play a key role in helping 23XI grow and succeed."
However, it’s not all smooth sailing for the American squad. The team recently opted not to meet a NASCAR-imposed deadline for signing Charter agreements for the 2025–2031 period. As per a release from the team, "23XI decided to not meet a NASCAR-imposed deadline last night to sign Charter agreements for its two cars for 2025-2031. 23XI's position, as stated in a letter to NASCAR, is that we did not have an opportunity to fairly bargain for a new Charter contract.
While this standoff with NASCAR unfolds, 23XI Racing remains undeterred in its stance on fair and equitable governance within NASCAR.
"We notified NASCAR what issues needed to be addressed, in writing, at the deadline. We are interested in engaging in constructive discussions with NASCAR to address these issues and move forward in a way that comes to a fair resolution, while strengthening the sport we all love," the team posted to social media. "At 23XI Racing, we remain committed to competing at the highest level while also standing firm in our belief that NASCAR should be governed by fair and equitable practices."
Meanwhile, the team is preparing for potential expansion. Reports indicate that 23XI Racing could be looking to add a third driver to its roster. Bob Pockrass from FOX Sports revealed that Xfinity Series competitor Riley Herbst is a prime candidate, especially given his association with Monster Energy, a brand already linked to 23XI. However, Herbst’s future remains uncertain. Pockrass wrote:
"With the team already having a Monster Energy relationship, adding Riley Herbst and his Monster deal would make sense. But Herbst has indicated his future is still not set."
Another potential future driver for the team is Corey Heim, though he may require additional developmental time to build confidence.
"Corey Heim is the team's driver of the future. But he might be a year or two away from being fully Cup ready," Pockrass added. "Despite the charter drama, 23XI Racing has been hiring employees to fill a third car for next year."
