NASCAR driver for 23XI Racing, Bubba Wallace underwent shoulder surgery right after the end of last season. And because of this surgery and the subsequent rehab, Wallace missed out on all the tests for the Next Gen car. While his medical necessity has kept him out of the action, it was a big reason that his teammate Kurt Busch was fast-tracked into it in his new team.

That’s what Toyota Racing’s President, Dave Wilson also admitted. He described that they’re “way ahead of the curve.”

“I think the silver lining in Bubba [Wallace] having his shoulder surgery right after the end of the season was that it kind of thrust Kurt into the driver’s seat, literally and figuratively, and he’s carrying all the testing,” Wilson said.

Also Read: Michael Waltrip Makes a Bold Prediction for Kurt Busch: “That’s What He Does”

Busch was announced to be joining the 23XI Racing’s ambitious expansion. And he brings a lot of experience to the table which perfectly balances his teammate, Bubba Wallace’s resume.

Kurt Busch is Mr. Consistency according to Dave Wilson

The Toyota boss described Kyle Busch as someone who, despite being able to do it all, has a sense of maturity about him that stands out above his on-track exploits.

“It’s not just what he can do on track, that speaks for itself — he’s Mr. Consistency. He’s going to make the playoffs. He’s going to win at least a race a year. But it’s the maturity in the feedback and the coaching.”

“He’s going to lift the performance of that organization. Not on Saturday or Sunday, but over the course of the season. That’s where, honestly, I think Kurt’s going to provide the most value,” Wilson added.

There’s no doubt that for 2022, the Denny Hamlin-Michael Jordan-owned team has big ambitions. They’ve already signed several names in key roles inside the team.

But there’s a big chance that it is Kurt Busch who proves to be their biggest signing.