Following his collision with Kyle Larson in Las Vegas on Sunday, NASCAR suspended Bubba Wallace from the next Cup Series Championship race.
Larson’s car drove Wallace’s car into the wall, thus Wallace returned the favor by striking Larson’s car in the back, causing Larson’s car to spin out. Wallace shoved Larson in the face after the collision.
Following the event, Wallace had a heated interaction with a reporter, ordering NBC Sports’ Marty Snider to “stop fishing” for an answer he didn’t want to give.
Wallace apologized on Monday for the incident.
“My behavior does not align with core values that are shared by 23XI Racing and our partners, who have played a crucial role in my incredible journey to the top of this great sport,” Wallace’s statement said.
“I want to apologize to NASCAR and the fans, along with Christopher Bell, Joe Gibbs Racing and Toyota for putting them in a situation in the playoffs that they do not deserve.
“I compete with immense passion, and with passion, at times, comes frustration. Upon reflecting, I should have represented our partners and core team values better than I did by letting my frustrations follow me outside of the car. You live and learn, and I intend to learn from this.”
Both competitors have had a difficult year. Larson was ousted from the NASCAR playoffs in the Round of 12 when Chase Briscoe secured the last berth with some help. During the season, Wallace had one victory, four top-five finishes, and six top-10 finishes.