Bubba Wallace Battles Depression After Friend's NASCAR Win

Despite a career-best season, Wallace grapples with disappointment and shares his mental health struggles publicly.

Bubba Wallace, NASCAR's only full-time Black driver, experienced a bout of depression following his best friend Ryan Blaney's championship win.
Despite finishing his own career-best season, Wallace felt a sense of disappointment and helplessness, which he shared on social media.
Wallace's struggles with mental health have been ongoing, and he has previously spoken about his experiences.
Ryan Blaney, the championship winner, reached out to Wallace after seeing his social media post, reminding him that he felt the same way when their friend Chase Elliott won the title in 2020.
Wallace, who drives for Michael Jordan in a heavily-sponsored No. 23 Toyota for 23XI Racing, has been praised by team co-owner Denny Hamlin for his leadership and resilience.