While the engines rev for the Phoenix Raceway, Bubba Wallace and the 23XI team are setting their sights firmly on the Las Vegas Race. Known for their signature No. 23 Toyota Camry boasting the iconic McDonald and Money Lion livery, the team is making a bold switch for the Pennzoil 400. The upcoming race marks the resurgence of the US Air Force on Wallace’s car.
The unveiling of the new United States Airforce scheme has left fans in anticipation, as they grapple with the challenge of identifying the transformed No. 23 car on the Vegas tracks. This fresh collaboration builds upon Wallace’s established alliance with the Air Force, a partnership that dates back to his racing days at Petty GMS. The partnership saw its inception last year at Dover, but 2025 is set to witness its elevation to new heights.
The car’s reinvented livery draws inspiration from the imposing B-2 Stealth Bomber, boasting a no-nonsense paint job that stands out from the crowd. In a sea of attention-seeking cars, the No. 23 is poised to capitalize on its stealth features to make significant strides on the racetrack. 23XI Racing took to social media to share this exciting update, stirring up anticipation among racing enthusiasts.
As the news of the revamped paint scheme rippled across social media platforms, fans, veterans, and active-duty personnel alike expressed their thrill to see this alliance take center stage at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The sentiment was perfectly captured by a Texas Air National Guard member and Air Force Veteran who lauded the new paint scheme as “AWESOME!”
The nostalgia among fans was palpable as one reminisced about a memorable paint job from Wallace’s RPM days. They noted, “I do like the air force paint schemes. I think my favorite is still the Tuskegee Airmen scheme he ran on the 43 car.” The World War II-inspired theme from the previous year also holds a special place in the hearts of the fans.
However, the stealthy No. 23 Camry’s new look isn’t without its own set of challenges. Fans humorously expressed concern for Wallace’s spotter, Freddie Kraft, who may find it difficult to spot the car on the track given its stealth-inspired design.
The No. 23’s new look is a departure from the vibrant red and yellow of McDonald’s, opting instead for a simpler, more focused design reminiscent of the actual B-2 bomber’s stealth capabilities. One fan noted, “This is so subtle but sick at the same time, the scheme captures the beauty of the B2 so well. The US Air Force sponsorship has created some incredible schemes for Bubba.”
However, the No. 23’s transformation isn’t the only highlight at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The Pennzoil 400 race has named revered actor Morgan Freeman as its Grand Marshall. Freeman, whose voice transcends generations, joins the ranks of celebrities like Mark Wahlberg, Tim Allen, Kim Kardashian, and Dana White who have held special roles in this racing tradition.
Freeman, who has previously lent his powerful voice to set the stage for the season opener at Daytona International Speedway, expressed his excitement about being part of this illustrious tradition.
Despite the star-studded affair, once the pre-race fanfare subsides, all eyes will return to the drivers. Track favorites Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin are expected to give a strong performance and contend for the win. As the engines roar to life, fans and participants alike can expect a thrilling race, with the transformed No. 23 car and the esteemed Grand Marshall, Morgan Freeman, adding to the anticipation.
