TULSA, Okla.—Christopher Bell solidified his place as a dominant force in the Chili Bowl Nationals by winning the O’Reilly Race of Champions on Monday night, driving his own equipment. Bell’s commanding performance featured an eighth-place finish in practice, the fastest time trials, and a flawless flag-to-flag lead to secure his fourth ROC title, marking a significant milestone in his career as an owner/operator in the prestigious event.
The Norman, Oklahoma native stepped into the event with a mix of excitement and nerves, openly acknowledging the heightened pressure of competing with his own racing team, Christopher Bell Racing (CBR). His dedication to building a successful operation became evident throughout the race weekend.
Bell Reflects on Transition to Owner/Operator Role
Before the race, Bell expressed a relaxed attitude about the outcome, stating,
“Win or lose, I’m here for a good time.”
However, the anticipation proved intense as he prepared for the 25-lap main event. Bell admitted,
“I was nervous, that’s for sure,”
highlighting the added responsibility of managing his own equipment.
He emphasized the importance of his team’s support system, saying,
“I am completely blessed to come here and get to drive for Keith Kunz and Chad Boat, who are two of the best mechanics in the building,”
which reassured him that the car’s performance would be competitive.
Bell described his mindset shift:
“I have just turned the chapter in my life where I’ve been there, done that. Now, I wanted to try and do it on my own and with a group of people that I love around me. And it’s been the most rewarding thing I’ve done in a long time.”
Building Toward Historic Fourth Golden Driller
With the win, Bell moves closer to matching a rare achievement in the Chili Bowl Nationals by pursuing a fourth Golden Driller trophy, a feat last accomplished by Kevin Swindell in 2013. His current tally ties him with Kyle Larson, a fierce rival who equaled Bell’s record of three Chili Bowl National victories after Monday’s race.
Larson also set a new benchmark by winning his ninth preliminary feature at the event, a mark Bell could equal during Thursday qualifiers.
Discussing the rivalry and the challenge ahead, Bell reflected,
“We were watching tonight, and Kyle got in a little accident there in the heat race,”
acknowledging the fine margins in winning these events. He added,
“Nothing’s guaranteed for him. Nothing’s guaranteed for me. And we’ve got to go out there and make it happen.”
Bell recalled the uncertainty early in his career after finishing second to Larson in 2020, admitting he once doubted he could win another Golden Driller, underscoring the difficulty of consistent success at the Chili Bowl.
Building Christopher Bell Racing and Supporting Teammates
Since concluding the NASCAR season, Bell has devoted himself to establishing Christopher Bell Racing as a competitive presence in midget car racing. His team’s efforts paid off with Bell’s victory and also fielding a car for his friend Kaidon Brown, a two-time Australian Speedcar Champion who qualified on Wednesday driving the No. 21AU midget.
Bell’s enthusiasm for expanding his team and nurturing talent within the sport reflects his commitment to racing beyond his individual performance.
Gratitude for Supporters and Racing Journey
Bell expressed deep appreciation for those who have played pivotal roles in his development, including key figures such as Pete Willoughby, Keith Kunz, Jack Irving, and Tyler Gibbs at Toyota Racing Development (TRD). He remarked,
“Just super blessed, grateful, thankful for the people that have put their time and effort and commitment into me.”
Reflecting on his career path and current opportunities, Bell said,
“They made me who I am, and I’m forever indebted to them and just taking it all in and soaking it all in.”
He considers his journey akin to winning a rare lottery ticket in life, concluding,
“I get to race cars for a living. Nobody would have been able to write the script of my life. Just so indebted, indebted to the people that have taken a chance on me. And the list is so incredibly long of people who have helped me get to this point. Just forever grateful and want to give back and do my part too to try and help someone else get this lottery ticket that I won.”
Implications for Christopher Bell’s Racing Future
Christopher Bell’s triumph at the Chili Bowl highlights his dual capability as a driver and team owner, reinforcing his status in open-wheel racing circles and the broader motorsport community. As he pursues a historic fourth Golden Driller and continues to build his racing organization, Bell’s focus on team growth and competitive excellence will likely enhance his legacy.
With his eyes set on matching record-breaking achievements and fostering new talent, Bell is positioned to shape the future of midget racing while maintaining his role in the NASCAR Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing.
