Kyle Larson, the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series champion and a California native, is preparing to defend his title at this year’s Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa, aiming for his fourth Golden Driller trophy and further cementing his status as a standout competitor at the event. The widely anticipated race puts the spotlight on the Kyle Larson Chili Bowl Nationals storyline, with Larson set to compete among a strong field of drivers from January 12 to 17 in Oklahoma.
Larson’s Recent Triumph and Career at the Chili Bowl
In his most recent appearance, Larson dominated the Chili Bowl Nationals main event, leading all 40 laps from pole position to secure his third title, racing for Paul Silva’s team. The victory didn’t come easily, as mid-race chaos briefly knocked his engine out after a wreck and a late-race mistake nearly ended his chances when his car climbed the wall, almost overturning. He ultimately benefited from a caution caused by a stray sponsor banner, protecting his lead in the closing laps and sealing the win.
Larson’s previous victories at the Chili Bowl were earned in 2020 and 2021, making him one of the modern era’s top performers alongside fellow driver Christopher Bell. With three Chili Bowl Nationals wins, Larson is now two titles shy of matching Sammy Swindell’s record of five. Over his 17 appearances since debuting in 2008, Larson has also claimed eight preliminary feature wins and five heat race victories, demonstrating consistent excellence on dirt.
Racing for His Own Team and Chasing More Honors
This time, Larson will return behind the wheel of the No. 1 car for his own team, Kyle Larson Racing, with hopes of taking home the coveted $20,000 prize and expanding his record of top finishes—adding to his six top-5 and nine top-10 results in A-Main races. The short-term, high-stakes dirt track event at Tulsa’s SageNet Center brings together notable names such as Ty Gibbs, Corey Day, Josh Bilicki, Sheldon Creed, and Christopher Bell among others, intensifying the competition for the Golden Driller trophy.
The 40th annual running of the Chili Bowl Nationals is scheduled with preliminary action throughout the week, culminating in Saturday night’s A-Main where one driver will emerge victorious. The event attracts a passionate crowd, with major drivers and teams pushing their limits on the temporary 1/5-mile clay circuit.
Featured in Pre-Race Shows and Busy Racing Schedule
Beyond the main event, fans will see Larson participate in a special Chili Bowl live pre-show, which will feature a rotating lineup of NASCAR stars ahead of each day’s racing. Notable appearances include Christopher Bell, Carson Hocevar, two-time winner Tony Stewart, and Chase Briscoe, each providing perspectives and insights to fans tuning in.
Chili’s, the event’s primary sponsor, will support coverage of the live pre-show, the race itself, and the post-race analysis. This partnership introduces a new series on FloRacing, titled Chili’s Road to Chili Bowl, documenting the journeys of top drivers as they prepare for one of midget racing’s premier stages.
Leading up to the Chili Bowl, Larson’s racing schedule remains full. He will compete in the Tulsa Shootout, held at the same SageNet Center venue, and has just concluded participation in his High Limit Racing sprint car series’ major event at Perth Motorplex in Australia, before returning stateside to focus on Tulsa’s dirt midget competition.
Significance and What Lies Ahead
Kyle Larson’s pursuit of a fourth Chili Bowl Nationals title showcases his ongoing dominance in dirt track racing and fuels excitement among his supporters. His achievements alongside figures like Christopher Bell and Sammy Swindell contribute to the rich legacy of the event. As the racing world turns its attention to Tulsa, all eyes will be on Larson to see if he can close the gap to the all-time win record and further solidify his place in motorsports history at the Kyle Larson Chili Bowl Nationals.
