Christopher Bell made a dramatic push on the final lap at Watkins Glen International on Sunday, securing a second-place finish behind winner Shane van Gisbergen. The Joe Gibbs Racing driver executed an impressive late-race surge that showcased his skill and determination amidst changing pit strategies and extended green-flag runs.
Strategic Battle and Race Conditions
During the race, a mix of pit strategies saw drivers either stretch their stints, pit early, or maintain aggressive pace to the finish. Bell used a strong third-place finish in the second stage to gain favorable track position before making his pit stop. With no caution flags in the last 46 laps, Bell had to rely entirely on his pace and maneuvers to advance through traffic in the final stage.
Fighting Dirty Air and Challenging Conditions
Passing while battling the Next Gen car’s dirty air posed a significant challenge for Bell, a three-time winner this season. He described the effects of the turbulent air on his car’s performance and his own physical comfort.
I wanted to get to [Buescher] for sure,
Bell said. I was hoping to get to him before the last lap. —Christopher Bell
Dirty air… dirty air is so bad. You can close the gap and once you get to two car lengths back, you can just feel the hot air – even the air that is going through your helmet. It gets hot, the brakes get hot, you lose grip and you stall out.
—Christopher Bell
Overcoming the Challenge for a Strong Finish
Maintaining a solid pace without the aid of caution periods was crucial. Bell remained confident in his speed and strategy throughout the run to the finish line.
I was moving pretty good so I was content with no yellows and just letting it run green,
he explained.
Thankfully, I had enough pace so I could break through that bubble and get by him. It took a little bit longer than I wanted to.
—Christopher Bell
Bell’s determined effort resulted in his fourth runner-up finish since his last victory earlier this year in March at Phoenix, highlighting his consistency and competitiveness in the 2025 season.
