Christopher Bell’s exceptional performance on the dirt tracks is making headlines, largely thanks to a change in policy by his NASCAR team owner, Joe Gibbs. Previously, Gibbs imposed strict restrictions on his drivers, preventing them from partaking in dirt track racing. But in a turn of events in November 2024, Gibbs lifted these limitations, and Bell has been unstoppable ever since.
The beginning of the season saw sceptics doubting Bell’s ability to sustain his dirt racing success, particularly in the face of Kyle Larson’s dominance in the Cup Series. But Bell has proven them wrong, coming out on top in three of the first four races. This winning streak, Bell attributes to his enforced hiatus from dirt racing.
Bell, who drives the No. 20 Toyota, has a stellar history in dirt racing. A three-time champion at the Chili Bowl Nationals between 2017 and 2019, he is counted among the likes of Sammy Swindell and Kevin Swindell. So, it’s not hard to imagine his frustration when he was prevented from participating in the very sport that made him a household name.
Meanwhile, his long-time dirt rival and Rick Hendrick’s star driver, Kyle Larson, was racking up victories. In 2024 alone, Larson clinched prestigious wins at events like the Chili Bowl Nationals, the Barberville World of Outlaws, and the USAC Midget Madness. In a candid interview with NASCAR, Bell admitted to harbouring feelings of resentment while watching Larson triumph on the dirt tracks.
Despite finally coming to terms with his situation towards the end of 2023, Bell’s desire to return to the dirt never waned. Thus, when Gibbs finally lifted the restrictions, Bell seized the opportunity with both hands. In 2025 alone, he has already secured victories at the Tulsa Shootout, the O’Reilly Race of Champions, and the World of Outlaws Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals.
Bell’s impressive performance hasn’t been limited to the dirt tracks. He has also clinched three consecutive Cup Series races in Atlanta, COTA, and Phoenix – a feat previously unachieved in the Next-Gen era.
Even as Bell challenges the supremacy of Rick Hendrick’s team, his success hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Kyle Larson, despite being a fierce rival, has often found himself playing catch-up to Bell. Larson’s victories include the Chili Bowl Nationals feature and the World of Outlaws DIRTcar Nationals races. However, he has acknowledged Bell’s pace and admits to enjoying their competitive rivalry.
Their intense competition has also won the admiration of Cliff Daniels, Hendrick Motorsports No. 5 crew chief. Praising both drivers for their skill and competitiveness, Daniels anticipates more exciting battles between them in the future.
As we continue to follow Christopher Bell’s trailblazing journey, one thing is certain: his rivalry with Kyle Larson is keeping fans on the edge of their seats. It promises to be an enthralling season of racing as we wait to see where this fierce competition will lead.
