“It’s a Bad Way to Race, but There’s No Other Way” – Bubba Wallace Exposes Next-Gen’s Harsh Short-Track Reality

NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace has criticized the Next-Gen car's performance on short tracks, describing the racing as "a bad way to race" but acknowledging there is no alternative. Wallace, who drives the No. 23 Toyota for 23XI Racing, made the comments ahead of the 2026 Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 15.

The 23XI Racing driver's remarks highlight ongoing concerns about the Next-Gen package's suitability for short-track competition, where limited passing opportunities and aggressive driving have become common.