Noose found in stall of Bubba Wallace at Alabama NASCAR race
TALLADEGA, Ala. (WISH) – A noose was found in Bubba Wallace’s garage stall on Sunday, according to a statement from NASCAR.
NASCAR released a statement on Sunday that said “Late this afternoon, NASCAR was made aware that a noose was found in the garage stall of the 43 team. We are angry and outraged, and cannot state strongly enough how seriously we take this heinous act. We have launched an immediate investigation, and will do everything we can to identify the person(s) responsible and eliminate them from the sport. As we have stated unequivocally, there is no place for racism in NASCAR, and this act only strengthens our resolve to make the sport open and welcoming to all.”
According to NASCAR, the team’s garage stall where this noose was found is restricted to essential personnel only. That means only NASCAR officials, security and health and safety officials could be in the area.
Bubba wallace also tweeted out a statement late Sunday night:
Today’s despicable act of racism and hatred leaves me incredibly saddened and serves as a painful reminder of how much further we have to go as a society and how persistent we must be in the fight against racism. Over the last several weeks I have been overwhelmed by the support from people across the NASCAR industry including other drivers and team members in the garage. Together, our sport has made the commitment to driving real change and championing a community that is accepting and welcoming of everyone. Nothing is more important and we will not be deterred by the reprehensible actions of those who seek to spread hate. As my mother told me today ‘they are just trying to scare you.’ This will not break me, I will not give in nor will I back down. I will continue to proudly stand for what I believe in.
Bubba Wallace, who is the only black driver in NASCAR’s top circuit, has been outspoken about the black lives matter movement.
He called for a ban on the confederate flag in racing, which NASCAR did back on June 10.
Sunday also saw the first time NASCAR fans returned to the track in Talladega, Alabama, where a Confederate flag with a “Defund NASCAR” banner was seen flying over the track. Confederate memorabilia was also being sold across the street.
The race was postponed until Monday, due to weather.