Ahead of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, Bubba Wallace is shaking things up on his team with Charles Denike stepping in as his new crew chief, replacing Bootie Barker after missing out on the 2024 playoffs.

Despite not making it to the 2024 Cup Series playoffs, Wallace’s teammate Tyler Reddick represented the team at the Nov. 10 Championship 4. Denike, currently serving as crew chief for Christian Eckes in the Truck Series, will take over Barker’s role in 2025.

However, Barker isn’t leaving 23XI Racing entirely. He’ll transition into a behind-the-scenes role. “23XI has been good to me, and I hope I have been as good for 23XI,” Barker expressed. “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.”

Wallace also shared his thoughts on the changes, saying: “Bootie has meant a lot to me and the No. 23 team. We’ve been together for some special moments, and I’m glad he’s still going to be a part of what we’re building at 23XI. I’m excited to work with Charles and see what we can accomplish together.”

Dave Rogers, 23XI Director of Competition, praised Barker’s contributions: “Since joining 23XI, Bootie has provided Bubba and the No. 23 crew with the leadership and confidence they needed to grow into the team they are today,” he said.

“As we began to look ahead to next season, we decided that Bootie’s experience would best serve the organization in a different role based at Airspeed. His input will continue to be an asset to our teams.

“We’re excited to welcome Charles to the organization and look forward to getting started with him at the end of the season. He will be a terrific addition to the No. 23 team and 23XI as we continue to work to be better.”

Wallace failed to make the 2024 Cup Series playoffs ( 

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(Image: Getty))

“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,” said Denike.

“Bubba is a proven winner, and I believe we will bring out the best in each other. Thank you to Michael, Denny, and Dave 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.”