Bubba Wallace is one of the most prominent and successful drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series, the top racing circuit in America. He made history in 2021 as the first Black driver to win a Cup Series race since 1963, when he triumphed at the YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. But who is Bubba Wallace related to? What is his family background and how did they support his racing dreams? In this article, we will explore the family tree and members of Bubba Wallace, and learn more about his personal life and achievements.
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Bubba Wallace’s Parents: Desiree and Darrell Sr.
Bubba Wallace was born as William Darrell Wallace Jr. on October 8, 1993, in Mobile, Alabama. He is the son of Desiree Wallace Lawrence and Darrell Wallace Sr., who are both from Alabama. Bubba is biracial, as his mother is Black and his father is white. His parents divorced when he was young, but they remained supportive of his racing career.
Desiree Wallace Lawrence is a social worker who works with children and families. She has been a vocal advocate for her son and for racial justice in NASCAR. She often attends his races and cheers him on from the stands. She also defended him from online trolls and critics who questioned his racial identity or accused him of faking a hate crime. According to CNN1, she told him, “They are just trying to scare you. This will not break you, you will not give in nor will you back down. You will continue to proudly stand for what you believe in.”
Darrell Wallace Sr. is the owner of an industrial cleaning business called Industrial Cleaning Solutions Inc. He introduced Bubba to racing when he was nine years old, and bought him his first go-kart. He also helped him finance his early racing career and encouraged him to pursue his passion. According to Sports Lulu2, he said, “I told him if this is what you want to do, then we’ll do whatever it takes to make it happen.”
Bubba Wallace’s Sister: Brittany Gillispie
Bubba Wallace has an older sister named Brittany Gillispie, who is also a former athlete. She played basketball for Santa Clara University from 2009 to 2013, where she earned a degree in sociology. She also played professionally in Germany for one season. She is now married to Aaron Gillispie, a former baseball player for West Virginia University. They have two children together, a son named Asher and a daughter named Ada.
Brittany Gillispie is very close to her brother and often posts pictures and videos of him on her Instagram account. She also supports his racing career and attends some of his events. She has praised him for being a role model and a leader in NASCAR, especially for the Black community. According to The Undefeated, she said, “He’s always been that person that stands up for what he believes in and doesn’t let anybody tell him different.”
Bubba Wallace’s Girlfriend: Amanda Carter
Bubba Wallace has been dating Amanda Carter since 2016. She is a financial analyst who graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in accounting. She also has a master’s degree in business administration from Wake Forest University. She works for Ernst & Young, a multinational professional services firm.
Amanda Carter has been a loyal and loving partner to Bubba Wallace throughout their relationship. She has stood by his side during his highs and lows, and has shown him unconditional support and respect. She has also joined him in his efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in NASCAR and beyond. She has participated in peaceful protests against racial injustice and police brutality, and has worn shirts with messages such as “Black Lives Matter” and “I Can’t Breathe” at his races.
Conclusion
Bubba Wallace is related to a family of strong and successful individuals who have inspired him and helped him achieve his goals. He has also found love and happiness with his girlfriend Amanda Carter, who shares his values and vision. Bubba Wallace is not only a talented and accomplished racer, but also a proud and grateful family man.