Bubba Wallace entered the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series with high expectations, and early races suggested he could contend for wins.
However, a string of mid‑pack finishes has seen him slip to tenth in the championship standings, a drop that has raised questions among analysts.
The driver is currently in the final year of his contract, an option season that gives 23XI Racing a decision point as the 2026 schedule progresses.
Team principal Jordan Taylor has indicated that Wallace remains the leading candidate to drive the iconic No. 23 car in 2027, citing his steady improvement since joining the organization in 2021.
Since his debut with 23XI, Wallace has helped lift the team’s performance metrics, turning a once‑struggling program into a consistent playoff contender.
Looking ahead to 2027
If the option is exercised, Wallace’s continued partnership with 23XI Racing could cement his legacy as one of the most impactful drivers of the modern era.