Bubba Wallace Reacts to $50,000 Fine
The Chicago Street Course Race last week left NASCAR fans with a scuffle if that’s what it should be referred to as, between Bubba Wallace and Alex Bowman. During the cool-down lap, Wallace hit Bowman’s Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 with his Toyota Camry, and it was pretty clearly on purpose. Wallace was angry at Bowman for a situation earlier in the race that basically eliminated him from winning contention. The situation took place on lap 25 of the race, and Wallace was understandably angry. Wallace also seemed to truly understand his mistake, as it was without a doubt the wrong thing to do, and he took ownership, as well as making a few other statements.
Bowman had stated that he was attempting to turn his car’s windshield wiper on, missed a corner turn, and lost control of his car, sliding into Wallace. Bowman has taken ownership and said that he knows the mess-up was catastrophic for Wallace. Both of the racers texted each other after the race, making up, as Wallace has said, “We’re good”. Wallace also said that he, “felt some type of entitlement to show your frustration”. Wallace also said the following- “Did I time it wrong? Sure, 100%. It’s when his window net was down, and his seatbelts were off. Not an ideal situation. It’s the guy you’re racing within the points, and then he goes on to win the race. It’s like icing on the cake. It’s just three or four slaps in the face. I’m a passionate guy and I let my frustration get the best of me.”
Wallace was clear that he wouldn’t be appealing the fine. I think that there was a sense of responsibility taken by him, as he was clear about having no anger towards anyone and moving on towards a better future. He described the event as “the best thing that’s happened” to him, and an “eye-opening experience”. Getting fined $50,000 will indeed put anyone into perspective, but these guys do make a lot of money. Overall, it’s great that the situation is over, and that both parties have moved on. We look forward to an exciting Verizon 200 event next week.
