4:58 PM PT -- The checkered flag just waved at Talladega -- Wallace was in contention for the majority of the race ... and even led at one point.
Wallace ultimately finished 14th, his best place at the track in his career.
Wallace personally thanked his fans and gave a strong interview afterwards ... saying whoever is responsible for yesterday's incident cannot take away his smile.
"The sport is changing ... Whoever it was, you're not gonna take away my smile."- @BubbaWallace
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) June 23, 2020
What a moment. #IStandWithBubba pic.twitter.com/Z3YajMuBBJ
Emotional moment at Talladega ... where Bubba Wallace tried to fight back tears as ALL of his fellow drivers rallied behind him at the starting line.
The drivers worked together to push Bubba's #43 car to the starting line Monday to show their support for Wallace -- just one day after officials found a noose in his team's garage.
The drivers then gathered around Bubba's car before the Geico 500 in Talladega on Monday to show the world they stand with him ... and man, it was powerful stuff.
No words pic.twitter.com/ZorYccEjFo
— Steve O'Donnell (@odsteve) June 22, 2020
Wallace was flanked by 82-year-old team owner Richard Petty who also showed support for the young driver.
The event also featured a prayer for unity in the wake of the racist incident.
After the national anthem, which was also super emotional, drivers lined up to hug Wallace ... who was obviously moved by the show of support.
The race is about to begin ... and even though there are a few fans at the Speedway, the energy is off the charts.
LET'S GO BUBBA!!!!!!!
Originally published -- 12:14 PM PT