Bubba Wallace has stepped in to support Brad Perez, making a move that quickly gained attention across the NASCAR garage. The 23XI Racing driver pledged $15,000 after seeing Perez share an update about his racing plans on X.
The timing comes as the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Martinsville Speedway. Wallace’s action highlights how drivers at the top level can directly affect opportunities for racers competing in lower series, where funding often determines who gets on track.
Brad Perez’s Message Led to Bubba Wallace’s Response
Perez shared a message in February explaining his situation while thanking supporters for their help.
“Hey everyone, I wanted to say thank you all so much for the help. The ARCA race is covered. However, the O’Reilly opportunity slipped away. Still trying to lock in some open ride opportunities for Martinsville, Charlotte, Darlington, and Kansas.”
The update showed that while one race was secured, he still needed backing for several upcoming events. Wallace saw the message and responded with a direct pledge.
“I like Martinsville. I’m in for 15k. Let’s get some more funds for my dawg here to go race!”
Funding Secures Martinsville Ride for Brad Perez
The $15,000 pledge helped Perez move forward with plans to race at Martinsville. He is now set to compete with Young’s Motorsports, driving the No. 42 Chevrolet in an ARCA-affiliated event tied to the NASCAR development ladder.
Perez’s racing path includes experience as a tire specialist and driving instructor, along with starts in the ARCA Menards Series and the Truck Series.
NASCAR Community Reacts to Wallace’s Move
Wallace’s action drew strong reactions from fans online, with many highlighting the impact of support from Cup Series drivers.
“I wish this was more common. Cup drivers could put whatever ‘brand’ they wanted on the car. So much young talent is sitting at home and it sucks. This sport isn’t talent based anymore but the cup drivers could help with that. Awesome move,” Vikings wrote.
“Cody added, There’s a good chance Bubba is the best human being in all of NASCAR.”
As race week arrived, Wallace again showed support with a short message on X.
“Let’s go @bradxperez.”
The response reflects ongoing discussion about the role of funding in racing. Drivers in lower series often depend on sponsorship and outside support to compete, making opportunities limited without backing.
As the race weekend approaches, Perez will take the track at Martinsville with confirmed backing. The moment shows how one message led to a direct opportunity within NASCAR.
Brad Perez Builds Martinsville Experience
Brad Perez’s experience at Martinsville Speedway has come mainly in the NASCAR Truck and Xfinity Series. He made his first-ever oval start there in 2023, driving for Young’s Motorsports and finishing 35th.
Since then, he has returned to the track, including two Xfinity starts in 2025, finishing 23rd and 31st. In 2026, he is scheduled to drive the No. 42 Chevrolet for Young’s Motorsports in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series on March 28. Known for his road-course background, Perez has continued to build experience at the track.
NASCAR Cup Series Driver Bubba Wallace Pledges Support for Brad Perez at Martinsville