Bubba Wallace -- the only Black driver in NASCAR's top series -- confirms a noose was found in his team's garage stall at Talladega Superspeedway on Sunday ... and now the racing org is investigating.
The noose was found by a member of Wallace's team -- just hours after someone flew a Confederate flag over the legendary Alabama track to protest NASCAR banning the symbol at all events.
The crew member who found the noose immediately alerted NASCAR, which is now working with law enforcement to find the culprit.
"We are angry and outraged, and cannot state strongly enough how seriously we take this heinous act," NASCAR said.
"We have launched an immediate investigation, and will do everything we can to identify the person(s) responsible and eliminate them from the sport."
Wallace called the situation a "despicable act of racism and hatred" -- and says he's "incredibly saddened."
He added, "We will not be deterred by the reprehensible actions of those who seek to spread hate. As my mother told me today, 'They are just trying to scare you.'"
"This will not break me, I will not give in nor will I back down. I will continue to proudly stand for what I believe in."
LeBron James offered his support to Wallace -- calling the entire situation "sickening."
"[Bubba Wallace] my brother! Know you don’t stand alone," Bron said ... "I’m right here with you as well as every other athlete."
"I just want to continue to say how proud I am of you for continuing to take a stand for change here in America and sports! NASCAR I salute you as well!"
As for the confederate flag flyover which took place before the Geici 500 race was set to begin -- still unclear who was responsible for that. NASCAR says they're looking into that as well.
Source: TMZ
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