Bubba Wallace often jokes about wishing for a new spotter, while Freddie Kraft sarcastically laments being “stuck” with Wallace for another season. Yet beneath the playful banter lies a relationship built on trust and adaptability. Kraft has learned to tailor his communication to Wallace’s style, keeping his instructions concise and impactful. Wallace, in turn, isn’t afraid to push back when needed, even bluntly telling Kraft to “shut up” during races. This dynamic has been key to their success, leading to two Cup Series wins at Talladega (2021) and Kansas (2022).
As they prepare for another season together at 23XI Racing, Wallace opened up on their journey together, and why they have bee such an inseparable duo for the last 15 years.
A bond built on trust and tough love
Bubba Wallace and Freddie Kraft’s enduring partnership, stretching over 15 years, is a testament to their shared growth in the high-stakes world of NASCAR. Their journey together began in 2010 during Wallace’s early days in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, where they clinched a victory in their first race at Greenville-Pickens Speedway.
Over the years, their relationship has evolved, characterized by candid communication and mutual respect. Wallace acknowledges the significance of their long-term association. Speaking on The Trey Wallace Podcast, Wallace said, “I mean we’ve been working together since 2010 and so through multiple race teams and multiple crew chiefs and just everybody that’s, you know, changed throughout my life in the last 15 years, he’s been the same.” This consistency has provided a foundation of comfort and familiarity amidst the ever-changing dynamics of motorsport.
Imagine this: Bubba Wallace, locked into the high-speed chaos of a NASCAR race, relying on Kraft’s voice as his guide through the blind spots of roaring cars and split-second decisions. But it’s not all smooth sailing; this duo thrives on a mix of tough love, humor, and mutual respect, and their evolution hasn’t been without challenges.
Kraft recently took responsibility for a strategic misstep during the 2025 Daytona 500 that cost Wallace a shot at victory, a moment that underscores the high stakes of their collaboration. Despite such setbacks, Wallace praises Kraft for his ability to bolster him mentally during intense races. However, he does it with a dose of tough love. “I’m not afraid to tell him, ‘Hey, shut the hell up’… I think I say it every weekend,” added Wallace.
Kraft’s role transcends traditional spotting duties; he serves as a steadfast support system both on and off the track. Wallace elaborates on their evolved communication, noting, “You have a familiar voice that’s… really comes down to comfortability, and he’s gotten better and better; we both have gotten better over the years throughout our craft.” This mutual improvement underscores their commitment to excellence and adaptability in a competitive environment.
DARLINGTON, SOUTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 31: Bubba Wallace, driver of the #23 U.S. Air Force Toyota, looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on August 31, 2024 in Darlington, South Carolina. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
Wallace reflects on the balance of motivation and critique, stating, “It motivates me but no Freddie I mean you have to listen just damn near about everything that he says and you also have like your own way.” This dynamic allows for honest feedback, fostering personal and professional growth. Additionally, their camaraderie extends beyond the racetrack, reflecting a profound personal connection.
In 2023, Wallace paid tribute to Kraft’s late father by displaying his name on the No. 23 car, showcasing a bond that transcends professional obligations. Such gestures exemplify the depth of their friendship and mutual respect. As Wallace and Kraft continue their journey with 23XI Racing, their enduring partnership serves as a cornerstone of their endeavors. Their shared history, characterized by triumphs, challenges, and unwavering support, illustrates the profound impact of trust and communication in achieving sustained success in NASCAR.
Fighting through it all together
Despite their strong bond, Wallace has also been candid about the challenges they face. The driver, who recently re-signed with 23XI Racing on a multi-year contract extension, acknowledged that it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. The charter negotiations between NASCAR and team owners in 2024, when 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports were suing NASCAR for monopolistic practices, led Wallace to express frustration over the uncertainty. “It’s frustrating to see where we’re at, because that impacts my life and livelihood and everything moving forward for my future,” he told Frontstretch.
The recent contract renewal with 23XI Racing signaled confidence in Wallace’s abilities, with the team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin securing his services for the foreseeable future. The official announcement on social media was met with a mix of praise and skepticism, with Kraft responding on X (formerly Twitter) to defend his driver, taking jabs at critics in his signature no-nonsense manner. His role extends far beyond just being Wallace’s second set of eyes on the track; he remains a trusted voice of reason and a fierce supporter of the driver both on and off the circuit.
Their long-standing connection has spanned over a decade as Wallace advanced from the truck series to Xfinity and ultimately to the NASCAR Cup Series. During this journey, they’ve celebrated monumental achievements, including Wallace’s historic wins at Talladega and Kansas. As 23XI Racing moves forward with Wallace behind the wheel, the relationship between the driver and his spotter remains a crucial element in his career. The bond they have built over the years has allowed them to endure the highs and lows of the sport, proving that sometimes, tough love can be the key to success.
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