NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace is facing major backlash after allegedly intentionally causing a crash and then violently attacking another driver.
Multiple reports say Wallace intentionally caused driver Kyle Larson’s car to spin out during the South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Wallace’s actions could have resulted in serious injury or death.
Hundreds of people are saying Wallace needs to face consequences, such as being suspended or facing potential criminal charges.
After the attack, a NASCAR official tried to get Wallace’s attention. However, Wallace pushed the official in response.
NASCAR officials could potentially penalize Wallace if they believe that his actions were deliberate.
Many people said that his top sponsor, McDonald’s, should reconsider supporting him.
The incident began as Larson Larson moved up the track and his car gave a slight tap to Wallace’s car. This caused Wallace to brush up against the wall.
In response, Wallace purposely tracked Larson car and slammed into the rear, which caused both cars to spin out.
Bubba Wallace could’ve killed someone with this stunt. He needs to be removed from the sport,” one user tweeted.
Larson responded to the incident by saying that Wallace’s aggression was not surprising.
“I obviously made an aggressive move into three and got in low and got loose and chased it up a bit,” Larson said. “And yeah, I mean, he got to my right front, and I got him tight into the wall and knew he was gonna retaliate. So, like I said, I mean, he had a reason to be mad, but his race wasn’t over until he retaliated. So it is what it is. Just, yeah, just aggression turned into frustration and he retaliated.”
When asked on camera if it was appropriate for Wallace to retaliate at that speed, Larson said no, as he pointed to the severity of injuries that could happen.
“I think with everything that’s been going on here lately with head injuries and all that, fractured ligaments and all that I don’t think it’s probably the right thing to do,” Larson said.
Larson did not act angry during the interview and seemed to have a lighter view of the incident, saying that most drivers have lost their cool and retaliated during races.