Bubba Wallace’s qualifying session came to an abrupt end Saturday at Sonoma Raceway.
The 23XI Racing driver lost control of his No. 23 Toyota Camry while trying to save the car after it got loose exiting Turn 10, sliding into the outside wall and sustaining significant front-end damage. Wallace climbed from the car under his own power and was evaluated and released, confirming he was uninjured.
(Click the link above to watch the crash).
The incident all but guarantees Wallace will start Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race from the rear of the field.
It remains to be seen whether the No. 23 team can repair the primary car or will be forced to unload a backup. Even if the damage is limited to parts changes, Wallace is expected to surrender his qualifying position and line up at or near the back when the green flag drops.
The crash is a frustrating setback for Wallace, who appeared to have solid speed before the incident. Instead, the 23XI Racing driver and his crew now face a long afternoon assessing the damage and preparing for race day.
If history is any indication, don’t count Wallace out. Sonoma’s strategy-heavy road course has a way of rewarding drivers who can methodically work their way through the field, and Wallace will have no shortage of motivation after Saturday’s costly mistake.
