In June 2020, Bubba Wallace called on NASCAR to ban the display of Confederate flags at race events—a move that NASCAR eventually embraced, aiming to create an environment where everyone can unite over their love of racing. Historically, after the American Civil War, the Confederate flag had been adopted by many as a symbol of Southern heritage, yet it also came to represent white supremacy and the legacy of slavery. Wallace’s advocacy led to the complete removal of the flag from events, and he believes that this decision has significantly improved the sport.
Wallace has been vocal about the change. In a recent segment on The Breakfast Club, the 23XI Racing driver was asked about the reactions of fellow competitors to his push for the flag ban. He explained, “I think we all came together as one, in unison, and I think that’s all you can ask for in sports. But, for the ones that didn’t necessarily want it banned, they didn’t come forward or show their displeasure.” According to him, the sport has evolved for the better without the presence of the Confederate flag.
While Wallace’s efforts have been met with praise by some, they have also come with a personal cost. The driver noted that following his campaign for change, he experienced a marked shift in public perception. Once one of the most popular figures on the track, he found himself on the receiving end of boos and criticism both on and off the track. Wallace reflected, “The year or two after that was rough, you know. I went from being one of the most favorable drivers, to now the boos and stuff and that’s okay because it’s sports.” Despite the negative attention, Wallace remains steadfast in his commitment to fostering inclusivity in NASCAR.
The Confederate flag ban was officially announced just before the Cup Series event at Martinsville Speedway in 2020. At that time, Wallace was racing for Petty Motorsports and showcased his #43 car with a distinctive black paint scheme. Emblazoned on the hood were the words “Compassion, Love, Understanding,” while the Black Lives Matter logo was prominently displayed on the sides—a clear statement of his beliefs and the changes he hopes to see in the sport.
Wallace has spoken openly about the burden of being the only Black driver at the Cup level. He acknowledges the weight of representation but also emphasizes his desire to push boundaries and establish a lasting legacy in NASCAR. Alongside Wallace, Rajah Caruth is another Black driver, representing Spire Motorsports in the Truck Series, highlighting the slowly increasing diversity within the sport.
