Bubba Wallace has never won the Daytona 500, but he had several moments on Sunday where it looked like he was about to take the checkered flag at the Great American Race.
The 32-year-old Wallace, who drives the No. 23 23XI Racing Toyota Camry, led by a total of 40 laps in the 2026 edition of the Daytona 500 at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. But when it was all said and done, he only managed to finish 10th — a disappointing result for Wallace, considering the success he was having early on.
Still, Wallace’s performance didn’t seem to frustrate 23XI Racing owner and basketball legend Michael Jordan. After all, one of the team’s drivers still won the race, with Tyler Reddick finishing first.
Amid the post-race celebration, Jordan was spotted hugging a dejected Wallace, seemingly trying to console the driver.
Words of encouragement from MJ 🙏 #HotPass pic.twitter.com/iLJePs7FID
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 15, 2026
It’s hard to tell what exactly Jordan was telling Wallace, but it’s fair to assume that he was offering some words of encouragement. Their interaction also sparked several positive reactions from fans online.
Great owner and mentor.
— OaksXCX💙🇺🇸 (@oaksc17) February 16, 2026
MJ showing his leadership skills.
— Eddie Sellars (@Coach_Sellars) February 16, 2026
Michael Jordan giving Bubba Wallace a big bear hug + words of encouragement in the pits GOAT owner vibes after the big Daytona weekend—pure mentorship energy!
— William (@William258118) February 16, 2026
When the GOAT talks…LISTEN !!!!
— Hollywood (@BiggWoodz13) February 16, 2026
MJ holding back the constant flood of tears from bubba.
— Easyryden (@easyryden) February 16, 2026
Although Jordan is known as one of the biggest winners in sports history, he, too, had to overcome devastating losses on his way to greatness. Wallace can surely learn a lesson or two about rising above adversities from the six-time NBA champion.
