Bubba Wallace To Race For Michael Jordan & Denny Hamlin's New NASCAR Team

BYErika Marie2.3K Views
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Bubba Wallace, Michael Jordan, Denny Hamlin, NASCAR, Richard Petty, No. 43, Noose, Statement
Jordan said in a statement that he's looking forward to more diversity in the sport of racing.

Earlier this month, Bubba Wallace announced his departure from Richard Petty Motorsports. The NASCAR star drove car No. 43 for the team and admitted that deciding to part ways wasn't an easy decision. "Thank you to the King and everyone at Richard Petty Motorsports for giving me the opportunity to start my Cup Series career," Bubba Wallace said. "I've grown so much as a driver and as a person since joining them. We've got nine more races together, and I hope we can finish the 2020 season on a high note."

It was expected that Wallace would move on to another team, and there were rumors that despite his controversy regarding the noose hanging in his garage months ago, the driver was still highly sought after. On Monday (September 21), it was shared that Bubba Wallace has found a new home, and it's with Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin's new NASCAR team.

ESPN reports that Hamlin, a "three-time Daytona 500 winner and top contender for this year's Cup title," shared that he and the Chicago Bulls legend became good friends after meeting at a basketball game. Choosing Bubba Wallace as their driver was "easy," said Hamlin. Michael Jordan also spoke about the NASCAR news: "The opportunity to own my own racing team in partnership with my friend, Denny Hamlin, and to have Bubba Wallace driving for us, is very exciting for me."

"Historically, NASCAR has struggled with diversity and there have been few Black owners," Jordan added. "The timing seemed perfect as NASCAR is evolving and embracing social change more and more. In addition to the recent commitment and donations I have made to combat systemic racism, I see this as a chance to educate a new audience and open more opportunities for Black people in racing."

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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