Aric Almirola, a seasoned NASCAR driver, found himself at the center of controversy following a physical altercation with fellow racer Bubba Wallace. The incident, which unfolded during a routine competition meeting shared by Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) and 23XI Racing, has led to significant repercussions for the driver, according to The Athletic.
The altercation took place in the lead-up to the much-anticipated Xfinity Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, scheduled for May 25. As members of teams both backed by Toyota and maintaining a close technical alliance, the confrontation between Almirola and Wallace was not just a personal crisis but a professional one, affecting the dynamics within and between their teams.
JGR promptly identified Almirola as the instigator of the scuffle, a judgment that led to his immediate suspension from the upcoming Charlotte race—a critical event where he was slated to pilot the No. 20 car. The ramifications didn’t stop there; Almirola faced an indefinite suspension from JGR, sidelining his racing activities while the team assessed the situation.
With Almirola out of the racing lineup, a rapid adjustment was necessary. Enter Ty Gibbs, grandson of JGR owner Joe Gibbs, who took over the No. 20 car for the Charlotte race. Ty stepped into the role shortly before the race. Joe Gibbs, discussing the replacement, termed it a “team decision,” highlighting the gravity with which the team viewed the altercation.
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Ty’s performance in the race was commendable; he secured a ninth-place finish and clocked the fastest time in qualifying, showcasing his capability as a reliable substitute under pressure.
Looking ahead, Almirola’s racing career with JGR is poised for a reset. Reports suggest that his suspension may be lifted soon, with expectations of his return to the Xfinity series by July 20 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This potential comeback marks a crucial phase for Almirola, who rejoined JGR’s Xfinity program this offseason to mentor younger drivers, twelve years after racing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. His experience and historical achievements in the series, including three Cup Series wins across 460 starts, underscore his significant role within the team.
The No. 20 car, under the successive stewardship of Almirola, Ty Gibbs, and other drivers such as Christopher Bell—who recently clinched an Xfinity race win at New Hampshire Motor Speedway—continues to be a focal point of performance and strategy for JGR.
Almirola’s anticipated return will be closely watched by fans, who will be eager to see how this veteran driver will navigate the aftermath of the altercation and steer his career back onto the fast track of competitive racing.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.