Danica Patrick BOOED at Watkins Glen After Explosive Comment About Bubba Wallace

Watkins Glen was supposed to be all about speed, strategy, and the thrill of NASCAR’s road course racing. Instead, the weekend turned into a media storm when former NASCAR star and current broadcaster Danica Patrick ignited controversy with one shocking remark that immediately went viral.

During a media interview, Patrick allegedly said:
“I don’t want to breathe the same air with him!”

According to multiple outlets, the “him” in question was none other than Bubba Wallace, one of NASCAR’s most polarizing and talked-about drivers. The statement was short, sharp, and instantly set the motorsports world ablaze.

Fans at Watkins Glen Turn Against Patrick

Patrick, who retired from full-time racing in 2018 but has stayed connected to the sport through media and broadcasting roles, quickly felt the fallout. Word spread through Watkins Glen before Sunday’s race, and when her name was mentioned during pre-race programming, boos erupted from the crowd.

For a sport trying to embrace inclusivity and respect among drivers, the phrasing of her comment felt like a step backward. Many fans interpreted it as unnecessarily harsh, even personal.

Danica Attempts to Clarify

Hours after the backlash, Patrick tried to walk her statement back. Through her publicist, she explained:

“I was asked a pointed question and gave an honest answer. My comments reflect personal differences, not professional obligations. They should not be twisted into something they are not.”

But the damage was already done. In NASCAR’s culture—where rivalries are embraced but respect is sacred—Patrick’s blunt phrasing struck many as disrespectful.

Bubba Wallace Responds — Without Saying a Word

While Wallace didn’t directly address Patrick’s statement, he posted a cryptic but powerful message on social media:

“Energy speaks louder than words. I’ll keep racing and let my results talk.”

The post gained thousands of likes within hours and drew strong support from Wallace’s fanbase, reinforcing his image as someone who answers controversy with performance on the track.

NASCAR and Watkins Glen React

Organizers at Watkins Glen issued a cautious statement late Sunday:

“We are aware of the comments made by Danica Patrick and the reaction from our fans. While we respect personal opinions, we remain committed to fostering an environment of respect and professionalism at all of our events.”

NASCAR itself has not officially commented, but insiders report that discussions about the incident are ongoing within the league office.

Fans Split Down the Middle

The fan reaction has been both fierce and divided:

• Supporters of Patrick say she has every right to speak her mind, no matter how controversial her words may be.

• Critics argue she went too far, disrespecting Wallace and creating unnecessary drama that overshadows the racing itself.

Social media has exploded with debates. Hashtags like #DanicaVsBubba and #RespectInRacing trended within hours of her remarks.

Why This Moment Matters

Bubba Wallace has long been a lightning rod in NASCAR—admired by some for breaking barriers and speaking out on social issues, while criticized by others who prefer drivers stay silent off the track. Patrick, meanwhile, remains a significant figure in NASCAR history, credited with opening doors for women in the sport.

This clash between past and present icons highlights NASCAR’s ongoing struggle to balance tradition, diversity, and the evolving voices within the sport.

What Happens Next?

Whether Patrick returns to the broadcast booth soon or stays quiet for a while, one thing is certain: her words will continue to echo. NASCAR must now manage not just the fallout from her statement but also the broader conversation about how the league and its personalities address each other publicly.

For now, the roar of discontent at Watkins Glen is almost as loud as the engines themselves. Danica Patrick may have left the track years ago, but her influence—and her words—are still shaking up the sport.