The 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa has drawn intense competition from eight drivers currently racing in NASCAR’s top three series, including defending NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson, Jesse Love, Christopher Bell, and Ty Gibbs. This indoor dirt racing event stands out as a unique platform where stock car drivers converge during the offseason to showcase their dirt track skills, blending elements of tradition and modern racing.
NASCAR Influences Extend into Team Ownership in Tulsa
Beyond the high-profile driver lineup, NASCAR’s imprint is apparent in the ownership ranks at this year’s Chili Bowl. A growing number of Cup Series competitors have taken on the roles of car owners, blending their racing careers with new responsibilities. Among the five active Cup drivers entering vehicles as owners are Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, Alex Bowman, Chase Briscoe, and Kyle Busch. Many of these drivers have roots in dirt racing, making their ownership involvement a natural extension of their developmental years.
Christopher Bell Finds Liberty in Operating His Own Team
For Christopher Bell, stepping into the dual role of owner and driver has brought a refreshing contrast to his structured NASCAR career. Bell described his experience as less pressured compared to racing for a well-established team.
“It’s just a little bit less professional,”
Bell said, illustrating the shift in mindset.
“This time around, doing and driving for myself, I am not a hired driver; I am not gonna drive for Joe or Keith or Chad. They hired me to drive their car. And I am a hired driver; they are expecting me to do well. Well, here I don’t have anybody to answer to,”
he added, emphasizing the freedom that comes from self-reliance.
Although Bell is racing for himself, he remains fully focused on achieving success at the event.
“It’s just about me, hanging out with a couple of friends and family that are working on the cars with me. So, if I suck, no one’s gonna get mad at me. And if I win, then that’s what we are here for,”
Bell explained.
The responsibility that accompanies ownership still induces nerves.
“I was so freakin’ nervous… just because everything is on me.”
—Christopher Bell, driver and owner
Expanding Team Ownership and Support for Fellow Drivers
Besides managing his own entry, Bell is also fielding a car for Australian driver Kaidon Brown. This step into ownership was inspired by his experience last year while driving for Keith Kunz Motorsports. That exposure sparked Bell’s interest in taking more control over his racing environment and assembling a team of drivers and crew members he genuinely enjoys collaborating with.
Bell has found satisfaction in the varied responsibilities ownership entails, from car preparation and shop assembly to pit arrangement and team logistics. These hands-on experiences have rekindled his passion for the sport beyond just driving.
Strong Performance Highlights Owner-Driver Progress
Bell’s enthusiasm as an owner has translated into strong performances on the track. Earlier this week, he claimed the O’Reilly Auto Parts Race of Champions for the fourth time and secured a Heat Race 5 victory, marking his ninth career preliminary win at the Chili Bowl Nationals. These results underscore how thriving in ownership roles can complement a driver’s competitive edge.
Chili Bowl as a Vital Offseason Outlet for Bell
Alongside the Tulsa Shootout, the Chili Bowl has become a core part of Bell’s offseason activities. These events allow him to step away from the relentless pace of NASCAR’s regular season and instead immerse himself in intense, focused preparation and competition within dirt racing. This balance helps Bell maintain his connection to varied forms of racing while relieving the pressures common to his Cup Series commitments.
"I was so freakin' nervous… just because everything is on me."@CBellRacing opens up on why being a car owner at the #ChiliBowl brings less pressure — but more nerves.
Interview presented by @MpdRacing. pic.twitter.com/AxofwquEpx
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) January 15, 2026
