23XI Racing co-owner Denny Hamlin has expressed confidence in Bubba Wallace, stating that the No. 23 Toyota Camry driver is fully focused heading into the 2025 NASCAR Cup season.
23XI Racing Faces Pressure in 2025
Coming into 2025, 23XI Racing finds itself under immense pressure, both due to on-track expectations and the ongoing charter lawsuit. The team must block out the distractions and push for wins, all while helping their rookie driver adapt to the Cup Series.
For Wallace, the stakes are even higher. The No. 23 driver has gone two years without a victory, while his teammate has secured multiple race wins and even a regular-season championship. Hamlin, however, believes fatherhood has helped refocus Wallace and make him more determined than ever.
🗣️ “He’s been locked in all offseason. Call it fatherhood, call it whatever you want to call it, but he’s been locked in all offseason.”
New Crew Chief, New Opportunities
The No. 23 team also underwent a major change for 2025, with Wallace’s former crew chief being reassigned. Hamlin is particularly impressed with new crew chief Charles Denike, emphasizing his leadership qualities.
🗣️ “I think he understands that Charles is someone that’s going to command respect. He’s going to have his process, and he wanted to make sure that relationship got off on the right foot, and he’s been doing his part.”
Denike-Wallace Duo Expected to Deliver Big in 2025
Hamlin had high praise for Denike, believing he could be the key to unlocking Wallace’s potential in 2025.
🗣️ “I was singing his praises all weekend, but we believe we found a rockstar in Charles. Glad we found him. Dave Rogers did a great job recruiting him from the Truck Series. He was with the 19 truck. I think he’s going to be a game-changer for 23XI and Bubba Wallace. I think those two could really do something special this year.”
A Career-Defining Season for Bubba Wallace
The 2025 season could be the most critical year in Wallace’s career. Another average campaign might jeopardize his future prospects. However, with the momentum of a P5 finish at The Clash in Bowman Gray and a fresh leadership dynamic within the No. 23 team, he has a real shot at making a breakthrough—starting with the Daytona 500.
Will Bubba Wallace rise to the occasion and secure his first win in two years? The 2025 season will provide all the answers.
