Christopher Bell is not only a rising star in the NASCAR Cup Series but also a passionate dirt racer with deep roots in the sport. As a driver for Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), Bell has secured nine career NASCAR Cup Series wins, cementing his status as a promising talent in stock car racing. However, his love for racing extends far beyond the track, with a particular focus on micro sprints and dirt racing, which shaped his early career.
Bell’s passion for dirt racing has led him to compete in prestigious events like the Chili Bowl Nationals and the Tulsa Shootout, where he continues to showcase his skills. In fact, Bell recently shared his insights on the significance of the Tulsa Shootout, emphasizing its role as a true test of a driver’s talent. He believes that making it to the main event at the Tulsa Shootout is a genuine indicator of a driver’s abilities, stating, “If you make a main at the Tulsa Shootout, it’s pretty hard to fake that.” His comments underline the event’s importance as a talent barometer for up-and-coming drivers.
Bell’s connection to dirt racing goes back to his early years in Oklahoma, where he started racing at the I-44 Riverside Speedway. He gained recognition for his success in the USAC Midget series and later competed alongside experienced drivers like Kyle Larson. Bell’s dirt racing roots proved valuable in his NASCAR journey, especially when he clinched his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win at Eldora Speedway in 2015—a dirt track.
In recent years, Bell has made a concerted effort to return to his dirt racing roots, taking advantage of JGR’s decision to lift its ban on dirt racing for drivers in November 2024. This move has allowed Bell to balance his Cup Series commitments with his love for dirt racing, and he’s now preparing for a busy season. After competing at the Tulsa Shootout, Bell will participate in the Chili Bowl Nationals from January 12-18, driving for Keith Kunz Motorsports. He will also return to 410 Sprint Car racing with Kreitz Racing in February, kicking off with the World of Outlaws season opener.
Bell’s schedule is packed, with appearances at major dirt racing events across the country, including the Kubota High Limit Racing Series opener in Las Vegas. While this busy itinerary could pose challenges, Bell remains dedicated to both his NASCAR career and dirt racing, excited for the opportunities ahead.
Tulsa shoutout: Christopher Bell Drop surprising 5 word confession uplifting new talent
