The FBI yesterday determined the rope found in Bubba Wallace’s garage stall at Talladega Superspeedway “was a garage door pull, not a noose.” The investigation also revealed evidence, including “authentic video confirmed by NASCAR, that the noose found in garage number 4 was in that garage as early as October 2019” (AL.com, 6/23). NASCAR in a statement said, “We appreciate the FBI’s quick and thorough investigation and are thankful to learn that this was not an intentional, racist act against Bubba” (Daytona Beach NEWS-JOURNAL, 6/24).
Wallace last night on CNN discussed the FBI’s findings, saying, “It was a noose, whether tied in 2019 or whatever.” Wallace: “It wasn't directed to me, but somebody tied a noose. That's what I am saying. It is a noose.” He added he was “pissed” about allegations that the incident was a hoax. Wallace: “I’m mad because people are trying to test my character and the person that I am and my integrity. … None of the allegations of being a hoax will break me or tear me down. Will it piss me off? Absolutely, but that only fuels the competitive drive in me to shut everybody up” (“CNN Tonight,” CNN, 6/23).
