Bubba Wallace’s Heartwarming Exchange With Keelan Harvick Wins Fans Over

Bubba Wallace’s recent interview with Keelan Harvick at Florence Motor Speedway has become a heartening highlight, capturing the affection of NASCAR fans. The two came together during a Legends Cars race where both Wallace and 12-year-old Keelan, son of NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick, joined the action.

Foregoing his simulation practice for the race, Wallace chose to enjoy some grassroots racing instead.

Wallace’s spontaneous, friendly moment with Keelan in a post-race interview struck a chord with many. When asked, “How was your race?” Wallace responded with genuine warmth:

“It was eventful. I was late to the grid, joined at the back of the pack, off the turn 2, and finished second. So that’s my best finish of the shootout; I’m just trying to be like you. Every race, every lap, trying to be like Keelan Harvick.”

This lovely moment between the two left Keelan lost for words.

“Alrighty, thank you,” he said.

Fans quickly took to social media to praise Wallace, contrasting this wholesome moment with the usual online criticism he faces.

“This is the Bubba I wish people saw more of,” one said.

With no wins in 25 races and sitting in 13th place, Wallace’s season hinges on his upcoming performance at Darlington Raceway. The pressure is palpable, as a win is essential for him to secure a spot in the playoffs. His best finish at Darlington this year is a P7.

This comes at the same time as Wallace commented on his feelings ahead of becoming a father in five weeks on the popular Dale Jr. Download podcast.

“I’ve been super calm, cool and collected about it,” he admitted. “Amanda [his partner], she’s been going through the ups and downs and just the excitement of motherhood for her, feeling the baby kick. She loves it. She thinks it’s the coolest thing ever.

“We’re five weeks out, and it’s crazy to think so she’s starting to feel some pain and some pressure in certain areas. Now she’s worried like, ‘Oh my god if I do one wrong move is the baby coming now?’ She’s overthinking everything.”

He continued:

“She asked me a couple weeks ago, she’s like, ‘Are you excited?’ I’m like, ‘Look, there’s a lot going on right now obviously, I will be excited when little man is here.’

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m excited to be a dad, but it takes a lot for me to get excited. We’re both enjoying the process. She’s strictly belly. That’s it. Hasn’t put on any other weight anywhere else.

“It’s crazy, which she said that might change in the last couple of weeks. It’s been awesome to see her grow and enjoy the whole process.”

We’re seeing a different side to Wallace recently, and fans aren’t complaining.