by Bubba Wallace’s commitment to NASCAR knows no bounds as he chose to miss the birth of his child to race at Kansas Speedway.
His son, Becks Hayden, was born the same day Bubba competed in the Hollywood Casino 400 and finished 17th. Although Bubba missed Becks’ birth, he immediately went to the hospital to join in the celebrations with his wife, Amanda.
Speaking to Fox Sports on Saturday before the Bank of America Roval 400 in Charlotte, Bubba explained what happened that fateful day. In particular, he shared how he and Amanda discussed the decision to miss Beck’s birth.
“I wasn’t there – I missed it,” Bubba shared, according to Fox Sports. “It’s that simple. We talked about it for months.
“We talked about the scenario for months and both agreed not to miss a race. So it is what it is. As a father, I am there for him every day. That’s all that matters.” Despite missing the birth of his son, Bubba made it clear that he was with his family before the race and immediately after.
“I left the hospital at 9 a.m. so I talked to her before the race,” Bubba continued. When asked if he could talk to his wife before the birth itself, Bubba replied with a slight smile, “Oh no, she had a lot… going on, so no, I didn’t talk to her.”
While some fans appreciated Bubba’s honesty and passion for the sport, others weren’t as kind. Some NASCAR fans criticized the 31-year-old’s seemingly selfish decision to race when his family needed him most.
“I just lost some respect. Race is not more important than your family,” one commenter wrote on X. Another added, “Just confirms the TRASH opinion everyone has about him.”
A handful of commenters tried to get the NASCAR star’s side, with one saying, “Funny how many comments are so judgmental about a decision a couple made TOGETHER when I’ve seen various drivers criticized for their decision, to stay at home.” for the birth of the baby. It’s not a victory. So we should just let them decide what’s best for them.”
Don’t miss it
Bubba Wallace left Denny Hamlin angry at the NASCAR race at Talladega
Denny Hamlin has high expectations for Bubba Wallace after the 23XI contract tender
Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin decide Bubba Wallace’s future at 23XI Racing
Nevertheless, everything seems to be fine with Bubba, Becks and Amanda. Shortly after her son’s birth, the driver posted on Instagram to introduce the world to the newest member of the Wallace family.
“Amanda and I would like to introduce you to Becks Hayden!” his post began. “We were blessed with his presence on Sunday September 29th after nine months of waiting for this little guy. He made everything worth it! I’m so excited about this trip!”
NASCAR, 23XI Racing – which he drives for Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin – and fellow driver Daniel Suarez all sent their well wishes to the couple as they enter a new phase of their lives. Bubba will start in Row 5 alongside William Byron on Sunday in Charlotte.
