Bubba Wallace's Shift in Priorities: Fatherhood Takes the Checkered Flag

NASCAR star Bubba Wallace has experienced a profound shift in his priorities since the birth of his first child, son Becks. The driver, who has dedicated over two decades to the sport, now finds himself navigating the joys and challenges of fatherhood, with racing taking a backseat to his newfound role as a parent.

A Blessing Beyond the Racetrack

Embracing the Unexpected Journey of Parenthood

Wallace, who recently welcomed Becks with his wife Amanda, has openly shared his journey into fatherhood. Despite the initial uncertainty, the NASCAR driver has embraced the unexpected challenges and delights that come with raising a newborn. "People always ask, 'Are you ready?' before your kid gets here, and you're like, 'I don't know.' And I can in fact say no, we were not ready. But it's been fun figuring it out every day, because every day is something new," Wallace revealed to PEOPLE.

Racing Takes a Backseat to Family Priorities

The birth of Becks has profoundly impacted Wallace's perspective on his racing career. "You know, racing comes second now. I don't say that easily," the driver admitted to Forbes. For the past 22 years, racing has been the sole focus, but now, Wallace's priorities have shifted. "I climbed out of the car after a great weekend at the ROVAL [a recent race]. As soon as I got back to the bus, none of that mattered anymore. He was, I think he was either awake or he just laid down or something, I don't know. But that's all that matters," Wallace shared, emphasizing the newfound importance of his family.

A Refreshing Shift in Mindset

The transition from being a dedicated NASCAR driver to a devoted father has been a refreshing experience for Wallace. "I asked my wife, 'how was he?' How was she? And nothing else mattered at that point. And I thought that was refreshing," the driver expressed, highlighting the profound impact Becks has had on his outlook.

Balancing Roles: Father, Husband, and Racer

As Wallace navigates his new role as a father, he acknowledges the delicate balance between his responsibilities as a parent, a husband, and a professional racer. "Marriage came, that was a great head-to-head there of, you know, showing up to be the best husband you can be and provide for your family then. Well, now you got a little one here," Wallace explained, underscoring the evolving dynamics within his personal and professional life.

A Glimpse into the Future: Becks' Influence on Wallace's Legacy

While Wallace's racing career remains an integral part of his identity, the arrival of Becks has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the driver's priorities and aspirations. As he continues to excel on the track, Wallace's newfound perspective as a father is likely to shape his legacy, both on and off the racetrack, as he strives to create a lasting impact for his son and his family.