Jesse Love, who recently secured the 2025 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (Xfinity Series) championship, will participate in the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals, entering the event under the 2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing team and driving a car owned by NASCAR Cup Series crew chief Blake Harris. The prestigious midget racing event will be held at the SageNet Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, further boosting the status of the cross-discipline competition and putting the Jesse Love Chili Bowl Nationals connection in the spotlight.
Transition From NASCAR Championship to Midget Racing Elite
The Chili Bowl Nationals is widely known as a top event in midget car racing, drawing elite drivers and teams nationwide. Love’s entry signifies a strong crossover from his recent NASCAR championship to a revered dirt track competition, highlighting his ambition and versatility.
Love’s Racing Credentials and Background
Heading to Tulsa, Jesse Love carries an impressive resume in dirt racing, with key victories in the Xtreme Outlaw National Midget Series and POWRi West, as well as holding the USAC track record at Gas City I-69 Speedway. These achievements, combined with his NASCAR Xfinity Series championship, underline his adaptability and skills across different motorsport arenas.
2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing’s Expanded Chili Bowl Effort
This year, 2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing, a family-owned outfit based in Texas, will bring a five-car lineup to the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals. Alongside Love, the team will include experienced drivers such as Matt Sherrell, Luke Storer, Tanner Berryhill, and Jeb Sessums. Owners Dan and Patricia Harris have led their team at the Chili Bowl for over a decade, aiming to make a sizeable impact in the coming event.
Broadcast and New Coverage Elements for 2026
FloRacing will provide live event streaming for the Chili Bowl Nationals, enabling fans to follow what is often called “The World’s Greatest Midget Race” throughout the week. For 2026, additional programming includes the Chili’s Grill & Bar Pre-Race and Post-Race Show, promising expanded coverage and new content for viewers. Tony Stewart has also been named the Grand Marshal, further elevating the profile of the event.
Looking Ahead to a Highlight Event in Dirt Racing
With Jesse Love’s entry and a strengthened lineup from 2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing, anticipation continues to build around the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals. The event is expected to draw significant attention from both traditional NASCAR fans and midget racing enthusiasts, highlighting Tulsa and the SageNet Center as pivotal locations in the upcoming motorsports calendar.
