Christopher Bell, a standout in the world of dirt racing and Cup Series competitor for Joe Gibbs Racing, is set to return to the Chili Bowl Nationals on January 12, 2026, but with a significant twist—he will take on the dual role of owner-driver for the first time. The Christopher Bell Chili Bowl 2026 campaign will challenge the accomplished racer as he shifts from only focusing on driving to managing every aspect of his racing operation.
Christopher Bell’s Rise in Dirt Racing and the Chili Bowl
Long before he became a mainstay in NASCAR’s elite ranks, Christopher Bell established himself as one of the most talented dirt racers, achieving major success at the Chili Bowl Nationals. From 2017 to 2019, Bell dominated the storied event, winning three consecutive times while driving for Keith Kunz Motorsports. Those victories marked the pinnacle of his non-stock car racing career, cementing his reputation among the dirt racing community.
Bell’s deep connection with the Chili Bowl goes back to his roots in Oklahoma, where the event has long been regarded as a premier showcase for some of the sport’s brightest talents. He often admired his childhood heroes as they raced to victory in front of enthusiastic crowds and dreamed of one day taking his own place among them. Those early experiences became the foundation for his racing ambitions and future successes.
A New Challenge: Debuting as Owner-Driver
The upcoming edition of the Chili Bowl will mark a dramatic shift for Bell as he enters the competition not only as an accomplished driver but also as the mastermind behind his own team. Unlike previous years, where he only needed to focus on piloting a well-prepared car to victory lane, Bell now shoulders the responsibility of managing equipment, crew, and strategy, all while maintaining his competitive edge behind the wheel.
Bell openly acknowledges the challenge that comes with this new role, describing it as the most stressful undertaking of his Chili Bowl career. He emphasized how driving for Keith Kunz Motorsports in the past allowed him to channel all his energy into performance, confident in the expertise his former team brought to every race weekend.
“It’s gonna be more stressful than just driving. Whenever you show up to drive for Keith, you know the car is going to be good. He has such a historic career there that you the car is gonna be good. You just gotta do your part driving.”
— Christopher Bell told FloRacing.
This new chapter pushes Bell into uncharted territory, as he must not only deliver on the track but also ensure every aspect of his entry, from engineering to strategy, is finely tuned.
Embracing the Complexities of Running a Team
Transitioning into the combined responsibility of owner, crew chief, and driver means Bell faces a more comprehensive—and stressful—preparation for the Chili Bowl. Previously, his primary job was to maximize the performance of a car he knew would be competitive. Now, every element of the race weekend rests on his shoulders, and any slip could spell trouble for his campaign. Bell, however, approaches this test with the composure of a multiple-time winner and seasoned professional.
“So, for me, going down there for the first time with my own equipment, I gotta drive good. On top of that, the car has to handle well. The wheels can’t fall off. All that stuff gives you more stress. But, you know, I am at a point in my career where if I go out there and never win another Chili Bowl, I am satisfied. I am just going there for fun.”
— Christopher Bell added.
The veteran racer is candid about the fact that the pressure now extends beyond his on-track driving capabilities. As someone who has already secured three Chili Bowl victories, Bell feels comfortable shifting his focus toward enjoying the experience rather than being consumed with the need to win at all costs.
Growing Up with Big Dreams and Achievements
Reflecting on his journey, Bell’s memories of the Chili Bowl nationals are intertwined with his childhood aspirations. Growing up in Oklahoma, he eagerly awaited the annual event, watching the “superstars” of the dirt racing scene compete at the highest levels. These moments were formative, fueling his determination to one day join their ranks.
“Obviously, I hope to win more. It’s the granddaddy of them all for me. I grew up in Oklahoma, and going to that event and seeing all the superstars who raced there—it was always the big one.”
— Christopher Bell said.
Bell admits that, as a child, he never anticipated competing in all the divisions of such a storied event, let alone imagining he would earn multiple victories. His journey from young spectator to three-time champion is a testament to the transformative power the Chili Bowl had on his career trajectory.
“As a kid, I just dreamed of competing in the event and never thought I’d reach the level of winning it. Now it’s just special, and it’s a huge part of why I am where I am today.”
— Christopher Bell added.
What the Future Holds for Christopher Bell
As the January 12, 2026, green flag approaches, all eyes will be on Bell to see how he navigates the unique pressures of balancing his roles as owner, crew chief, and driver in America’s most famous midget car race. Veteran observers and fans alike recognize the immense strain that comes with overseeing every detail of an entry, especially at a high-profile event where expectations are already sky-high.
While the hurdles are substantial, Bell’s rich experience, love of competition, and success in prior Chili Bowl outings provide him with a strong foundation as he embarks on this next phase. The story of a champion taking on a new challenge adds yet another compelling chapter to the legendary Chili Bowl Nationals and deepens Bell’s legacy within the sport’s vibrant history.
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