Bubba Wallace has shared an update on his mental health and preparations ahead of the upcoming 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.
The 23XI Racing driver has been vocal on social media about his determination to leave behind the struggles and disappointments of the past two years and step into the new season recharged and ready.
Wallace competes under 23XI Racing, a team co-founded by legendary basketball player Michael Jordan and racing driver Denny Hamlin. Over the years, Bubba has been open about his ongoing mental health challenges, including depression and the pressures of maintaining high performance in a demanding sport.
The impact of these issues has deepened due to career-related incidents, such as the highly publicized incident where a noose was discovered in his garage.
Wallace commented on the significance of focusing on his mental and physical health, aiming to kick off the year on a positive note. He revealed a shift from a mindset of simply getting by to an active commitment to better nutrition and regular exercise, which he believes will positively influence both his personal and professional life. He posted:
"Last night of the off season. Pre season work starts tomorrow, kicking it off with a fun trip to see the [Columbia] fam! Excited for this season to get underway. Took it upon myself to be better and do better. Got my ass kicked the last 2 seasons, plain and simple."
He added:
"No shame in saying that. Using it as motivation. I've been rocking the 'just get by' mentality for too long. Focused on my well being most importantly. Eating right, drinking right. Working out. Tired of looking like the grinch (can't help the hair).
"I love my wife, but she thinks it's a fad and I'm gonna stop next week. So excited to prove her wrong. In fact, I've been at it since the end of the season. The last 3 months have been the best ever. The mentals are at an all time high!! Couldn't be happier!"
Wallace concluded:
"To my people struggling to get started on a new journey. It's tough as shit, no doubt. But I look at it as there is 24 hours in a day. What's 30 minutes to walk, run, or ride the peloton? 30 minutes. The self gratitude after is so worth it. I'll start by saying I believe in you! 2025 is gonna be a grind. Time to roll up the sleeves, grab a glove and get in the game!"
As he prepares for his fifth season with 23XI Racing, Wallace looks to move past mixed performances from the last two seasons. In 2023, he managed to make it to the playoffs but was eliminated in the Round of 12, while the following year saw a start full of promise with strong finishes in Daytona and Atlanta, but eventually a struggle for consistency led to missing the playoffs.
