Bubba Wallace took to Instagram after missing out on the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs following a disappointing finish at Darlington on Sunday evening.
The 23XI Racing driver needed a win or a very strong finish to secure a spot in the playoffs, but he ended up placing 16th, falling short of qualification.
Wallace shared his thoughts on social media, channeling the competitive spirit of his team co-owner, Michael Jordan, with a simple yet profound message: “The things you want more, cost more.”
This phrase, which Wallace revealed Jordan often texted him before races, reflects a mindset of perseverance and determination that he plans to carry into the 2025 season.
In a post-race interview with NBC, Wallace elaborated on his feelings about missing the playoffs and the challenges faced during the race.
“We got behind on adjustments. We were back and forth on our US Air Force Toyota Camry,” Wallace explained. “A little too loose, a little too tight. That caution with a couple laps on tires where we stayed out, I don’t know if that was the deciding factor. We just got so tight there and got back there in traffic, a spot we hadn’t been all day. I got caught up in someone else’s mess.”
Despite the setback, Wallace showed sportsmanship by acknowledging the efforts of fellow driver Chase Briscoe and his team. “Unfortunate, I hate it for our guys, but hats off to the 14 [Chase Briscoe]. I thought I did something yesterday, they one-up’d us and showed up when it was game time. That’s pretty badass, so congrats to them.”
Wallace concluded by reflecting on his own performance and looking ahead to the future. “Wasn’t good enough for 16th this year. Hate that, it stings saying that, but it wasn’t from lack of effort from all of us on this 23 car. Best of luck to the 45 [Tyler Reddick], and hopefully a Toyota wins.”
With the 2024 season now behind him, Wallace is focused on preparing for 2025, carrying forward the lessons learned and the motivation to come back stronger.
