23XI Racing names 2025 crew chief for Bubba Wallace, moves Bootie Barker to new role

Barker took over as Wallace’s crew chief after 23XI promoted Mike Wheeler to director of competition. Barker earned his win as a Cup Series crew chief when Wallace won the rain-shortened YellaWood 500 at Talladega in October 2021. The duo won their second race together at Kansas in September 2022, this time donning the No. 45.

Wallace made the playoffs for the first time in his career last season, finishing 10th in the points standings. After failing to make the postseason this year, 23XI has opted to bring in a new voice to the No. 23 team.

“23XI has been good to me, and I hope I have been as good for 23XI,” Barker said in a statement. “Loyalty is important to me, and I will continue to do all I can in my new role to help everyone here succeed. I was fortunate to be a part of 23XI’s inception, and I look forward to being a part of the team’s continued journey.”

Bubba Wallace getting new crew chief for 2025 season

Denike makes the move to Cup Series competition following five seasons serving as a crew chief in the Truck Series. The last two have been with Eckes, who finished fifth in the points standings last season, and is a playoff driver once again in 2024. Denike has nine wins in the Truck Series.

“I am excited for the 2025 season with the No. 23 team and to work with Bubba and all of 23XI Racing beginning in the offseason,” Denike said. “Bubba is a proven winner, and I believe we will bring out the best in each other. Thank you to Michael [Wheeler], Denny [Hamlin], and Dave [Rogers] for the opportunity to join the 23XI family. They have built an incredible culture at Airspeed.

“I am a believer that winning is a process. When you step foot into Airspeed, you see the tools and resources that it takes to win and are surrounded by people with the same vision and mindset. I am looking forward to this next chapter and to be able to contribute to 23XI’s growth and journey to winning championships.”