Bubba Wallace has become one of NASCAR’s most dynamic Cup Series drivers, known for his bold driving style and outspoken leadership for 23XI Racing. With highlight wins and several deep playoff runs, Wallace consistently attracts attention both at the racetrack and beyond. In 2025, a strategic shake-up on the No. 23 team introduced a new chapter for Wallace, as Charles Denike took over crew chief duties after Bootie Barker’s departure.

Denike’s arrival comes with fresh optimism, tactical acumen, and a reputation for transforming teams. This fits perfectly with the evolving ambitions of 23XI Racing. Here’s everything you need to know about the man guiding Bubba Wallace’s next act on NASCAR’s biggest stages.

Charles Denike’s early life and background

Charles Denike grew up in Chester, Virginia, captivated by the racing culture fostered by his neighbors – the Butler family, owners of late model race teams. As a child, Denike spent time after school working in the garage, absorbing the mechanics and spirit of racing. Despite never being a competitive driver himself, he developed a deep love for motorsports’ engineering side. After graduating from Clover Hill High School in 1999, Denike attended the University of Virginia, enrolling in the Army ROTC program and graduating with an engineering degree in 2003.

His first professional experiences were shaped by discipline and leadership as a U.S. Army Engineer officer. Denike’s upbringing combined small-town racing passion and military rigor, foreshadowing his unique blend of technical skill and methodical oversight as a crew chief.

How did Charles Denike climb the ranks of NASCAR?

Denike’s motorsports journey began in 2012 after leaving military service to pursue racing. He joined Precision Performance Motorsports as a team manager and engineer for ARCA East and Xfinity teams, quickly building a reputation for technical acumen. By 2016, Denike advanced to GMS Racing as a race engineer, honing strategy and vehicle setup knowledge for Truck and Xfinity Series competitors.

His breakthrough came as a full-time crew chief at McAnally-Hilgemann Racing in 2022, where he helped secure the No. 19 truck’s maiden win and played a pivotal role in Christian Eckes’ playoff runs and race victories. Over 13 years, Denike sharpened his skills. He called races for Greg Biffle, Tyler Ankrum, and Justin Haley. With each step, he blended military discipline, race-day composure, and technical mastery, earning the trust of major teams and drivers.

What challenges and controversies did Charles Denike face as a crew chief?

Denike’s pit box career has endured its share of adversity, from mid-race mechanical issues costing wins to heated radio exchanges with drivers under pressure. Known for his blunt honesty, Denike refuses “sugarcoating,” directly critiquing driver or team performance when needed. In the Truck Series, his aggressive pit strategies and risk-taking sometimes led to penalties for tire or technical infractions, testing his reputation and resolve.

Notably, Denike rebounded from frustrating setbacks, evolving more resilient communication and earning respect for pulling teams back on track. For instance, at Darlington in 2024, when he motivated Wallace after a slip in running order. “We’re not fine if we’re bleeding five spots. So, we’re going to keep pushing,” he said over the radio to Wallace during stage 2 as he dropped from 5th to 8th. These tests hardened his leadership, positioning Denike as a crew chief ready to handle Cup Series intensity and controversy with sound judgment and determination.

How has Charles Denike’s partnership with Bubba Wallace defined his career?

Denike’s arrival at 23XI Racing in 2025 instantly reenergized Wallace’s campaign, culminating in a breakthrough Brickyard 400 win. Team owner Denny Hamlin describes Denike as “no rookie,” lauding his preparedness, work ethic, and ability to “pull Bubba back in when needed.” Their chemistry is built on trust, shared discipline, and a willingness to exchange candid feedback. This transformed 23XI’s No. 23 into a consistently competitive operation.

Denike’s military leadership and analytical mind proved a natural fit for Wallace’s high-risk, high-reward style. On and off the radio, Denike prizes calm and accountability, which has helped Wallace mature in adversity and decision-making, while also elevating the team’s playoff prospects and strategic consistency.

What does the future look like for Charles Denike?

Looking forward, Charles Denike is positioned as a rising star among Cup Series crew chiefs. His military rigor and technical savvy are increasingly sought after by top teams. As 23XI Racing grows, Denike’s role as both crew chief and strategic lead could expand to guide multiple teams within the organization, building a culture of discipline and teamwork.

Industry observers anticipate more playoff runs and victories under his watch, while Denike himself hints at a commitment to continuous learning and evolving with NASCAR’s technical rules. His adaptability and leadership have set the foundation for a long-term future. Whether he is atop the pit box or as a mentor shaping the next generation of crew chiefs and racers, Denike is a force to be reckoned with.