Bubba Wallace, one of NASCAR’s most influential and groundbreaking drivers, has built a net worth estimated at $8 million.
Born Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr., he has become a symbol of progress and resilience in stock car racing, breaking racial barriers while delivering historic achievements on the track.
Wallace’s rise began through the NASCAR Drive for Diversity program, where he quickly made his mark by becoming the youngest driver to win in the K&N Pro Series East and the first African American rookie of the year in that division.
His breakthrough moment on the national stage came in 2013, when he won at Martinsville in the Truck Series—the first Black driver to capture a NASCAR national touring series win since 1963.
From there, his career only accelerated, eventually landing him a spot in the Cup Series with Richard Petty Motorsports in 2017.
By 2020, Wallace made history again by joining the newly formed 23XI Racing, co-owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR star Denny Hamlin.
His first Cup Series victory came in 2021 at Talladega, making him just the second Black driver to ever win at NASCAR’s highest level.
On July 27, 2025, Wallace etched his name into history books once more with his biggest triumph yet—winning the prestigious Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, his first crown jewel victory and third Cup Series win overall.
Early Life And Background
Bubba Wallace was born on October 8, 1993, in Mobile, Alabama, and grew up in Concord, North Carolina. Raised by his father, Darrell Wallace Sr., who owned an industrial cleaning company, and his mother, Desiree Wallace, a social worker, Bubba grew up in a multiracial household—his father white and his mother Black.
He showed a passion for racing early on, competing in Bandolero and Legends car series before dominating the Bandolero Series at age 12 with 35 wins in 48 races. By 2008, he was already breaking records, becoming the youngest driver to win at Franklin County Speedway in Virginia.
Career: From Diversity Program To Cup Series Champion
Wallace’s career took off in 2010 when he entered the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East as part of the Drive for Diversity program.
That year, he won at Greenville-Pickens Speedway and earned Rookie of the Year honors, becoming the first African American to achieve the title in a NASCAR series.
In 2012, he debuted in the Xfinity Series, finishing ninth in his first race and claiming a pole at Dover. The following year, he joined the Truck Series and won at Martinsville, a historic victory not seen since Wendell Scott’s triumph in 1963.
By 2017, Wallace was called up to fill in at Richard Petty Motorsports in the Cup Series, becoming the first Black driver at NASCAR’s top level since 2006.
In 2018, he officially went full-time with RPM, making an unforgettable debut with a second-place finish in the Daytona 500.
Wallace joined 23XI Racing in 2020, marking a new era. In 2021, he delivered the team’s first-ever Cup Series victory at Talladega, followed by a dominant win at Kansas in 2022. In 2023, he made his first playoff appearance, finishing a career-best 10th in the standings.
His crowning achievement came in 2025, when he stormed to victory at the Brickyard 400, leading laps and breaking barriers as the first Black driver to win at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
With over 270 Cup Series starts, multiple top-10 finishes, and three Cup wins, Wallace continues to grow as both a driver and a cultural figure.
Beyond The Track: Media, Activism, And Public Influence
Wallace’s impact extends beyond racing. He voiced the character Bubba Wheelhouse in Pixar’s “Cars 3” (2017) and starred in the Facebook Watch series Behind the Wall: Bubba Wallace in 2018.
His story and advocacy were further spotlighted in Netflix’s 2022 docuseries “Race: Bubba Wallace.”
In 2020, Wallace emerged as a powerful voice for racial justice. Following the death of George Floyd, he became an outspoken advocate for equality, urging NASCAR to ban the Confederate flag at races—a request that was granted.
His efforts made him a leading figure in pushing NASCAR toward greater inclusivity and diversity.
Private Life
Wallace proposed to Amanda Carter in 2021, and the couple married on December 31, 2022. He has been open about his Christian faith and candid about his struggles with depression, inspiring fans and athletes alike by speaking openly about mental health.
He also founded the Live to be Different Foundation, focusing on youth empowerment and positive social change. Through both his racing career and personal mission, Wallace continues to embody resilience, leadership, and groundbreaking success.
FAQ
How Does Bubba Wallace Make His Money?
He earns through his NASCAR salary, race winnings, performance bonuses, and numerous brand endorsements.
What Endorsements Does Bubba Wallace Have?
He has partnerships with Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, DoorDash, Beats by Dre, and Columbia Sportswear.
Does Bubba Wallace Own Property?
Yes, he owns a home in Concord, North Carolina, along with vehicles and other personal assets.
What Makes Bubba Wallace Stand Out Financially?
His combination of racing success, endorsements, and cultural influence has made him one of the most marketable figures in NASCAR.