Tearful NASCAR star Bubba Wallace recalls Michael Jordan words of wisdom after Brickyard win

The emotion was overflowing as Bubba Wallace celebrated his epic NASCAR Cup Series win in Indianapolis on Sunday.

The 31-year-old superstar from Mobile, Alabama snapped a miserable three-year, 100-race losing streak to kiss the bricks at the iconic track after holding off Kyle Larson in a breathless finish.

READ MORE: NASCAR announce five drivers DEMOTED at Indianapolis including Denny Hamlin

It was quite a way to finally silence the critics for Bubba, and afterwards he was tearful and emotional as he reflected on finally making it back to the top of the pile.

He had many thoughts, among them paying tribute to Larson, the man he defeated in such epic circumstances.

Bubba on Larson, and MJ

Wallace though, speaking to TNT Sports, also referenced the words of wisdom he received from sports legend and 23XI Racing team owner Michael Jordan.

“To be the best, you have to beat the best - we can all sit up here and say Kyle Larson is THE best at the time right now. It’s an honor and privilege to race with him.

“But I go back to what MJ said last year at Darlington - things you want more, cost more. Larson wasn’t getting that from me.”

Wallace also took a moment to deliver a heartfelt message to his loved ones, the family who have suffered through the last three years with him - and supported him.

Thanking family

“I thank my parents. I thank my Mom, I know she was praying for fuel, cos fuel was a big issue and we had enough.I thank my Dad from day 1 - I had fun today Dad, I had fun today."

Sunday’s win not only snapped that long winless streak for Bubba, it also assured him and his No. 23 car of a place in the Cup Series playoffs later this year.

READ MORE: NASCAR announce driver DISQUALIFICATION at Indianapolis

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