The tempestuous relationship between Bubba Wallace and Aric Almirola, two titans of the NASCAR world, continues to stir up controversy. The infamous brawl that erupted between them in May 2024 during a 23XI Racing and Joe Gibbs Racing competition meeting stirred up a frenzied media storm, and it seems the embers have yet to cool.
The notorious incident, where Almirola caught Wallace off-guard with an unexpected blow, is still fresh in the minds of the audience, not least because it led to the indefinite suspension of Almirola, a seasoned veteran of Joe Gibbs Racing. Ty Gibbs stepped in to replace him for the Charlotte Xfinity race, marking a pivotal moment in Almirola’s career.
This scandalous episode laid bare the underlying rivalries simmering within the sport. When probed about the incident by The Washington Post, Wallace adopted a cautious approach, expressing his desire to “keep some people’s images good,”. But for Almirola, who had returned to Joe Gibbs Racing on a part-time basis following his full-time Cup Series retirement in 2023, this marked a significant blow. The incident not only put a strain on his relationship with Wallace but also highlighted NASCAR’s stringent policies against physical altercations.
Undeniably, Wallace isn’t inclined to let bygones be bygones just yet. On March 8, 2025, Almirola – now a part-time racer – claimed an electrifying NASCAR Xfinity Series victory in the GOVX 200 at Phoenix Raceway. The 40-year-old Almirola, driving the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, sealed his eighth career Xfinity triumph in an exhilarating overtime performance. He overtook Alex Bowman on the final lap in a door-to-door contact, leading the last 25 laps and snatching victory in the closing 200 feet following a four-wide battle on the final restart.
Despite Almirola deeming the move necessary, Wallace wasn’t hesitant in taking a veiled swipe at his rival. Using the platform of social media, Wallace reignited their feud by sharing his reaction to NASCAR journalist Jeff Gluck’s poll on Almirola’s last-lap contact with Alex Bowman. His tweet, “You acting like the 17 got… sucker punched,” not only resonated with his followers but also rekindled the ongoing rivalry.
As the NASCAR universe turns its attention from the Xfinity race to the forthcoming Cup Series race at Phoenix, all eyes will be on Wallace. Despite having only one top-10 finish at Phoenix in his career – achieved in his latest run during the 2024 Championship race – the anticipation is palpable. If Wallace finds himself embroiled in any controversy, will Almirola retaliate?
Keep your engines revved for more updates on this high-stakes rivalry.
