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Joe Gibbs Waves the Flag: Dirt Racing Returns for JGR Drivers, and the Chili Bowl Just Got Fierce

David Castro by David Castro
December 16, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 5 mins read
0
Joe Gibbs Waves the Flag: Dirt Racing Returns for JGR Drivers, and the Chili Bowl Just Got Fierce

Nov 10, 2024; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Christopher Bell (20) during the NASCAR Cup Series Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

For decades, Joe Gibbs, the legendary NFL coach and owner of Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), held firm to a golden rule: no dirt racing. Drivers under the JGR banner, like Christopher Bell and even Gibbs’ grandson Ty Gibbs, were prohibited from hitting the dirt tracks that formed the backbone of their racing roots. The reasoning was clear—dirt racing is risky, injury-prone, and could jeopardize not only a driver’s career but also the livelihoods of countless JGR employees and sponsors. But in a shocking twist, Gibbs has lifted the ban, and his drivers are wasting no time getting dirty.


Why the Ban Was Lifted: A Change of Heart

The NASCAR community was stunned when Gibbs announced his decision to allow JGR drivers to compete in non-NASCAR events, including dirt racing. JGR president Dave Alpern later revealed the pressure that led to this change on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio:

“There were some folks here that pushed Coach a little bit… Over time, it was just a matter of letting things settle down. Chase Briscoe comes in. He loves doing it.”

Alpern further emphasized the benefits of dirt racing for drivers, noting how it reconnects them to their roots and reinvigorates their passion for racing:

“When those guys go run those things, it breathes new life into them.”

With Briscoe joining JGR and Bell itching to return to his dirt track glory days, the timing couldn’t have been better for Gibbs to reconsider his stance.


Christopher Bell’s Dominant Return to Dirt

Christopher Bell, a dirt-racing prodigy, wasted no time capitalizing on his newfound freedom. His first stop? The POWRi Outlaw Non-Wing Micro League race at the Southern Illinois Center. Bell was a man on a mission, dominating the event by leading all 25 laps from the pole position. Afterward, Bell reflected on the race:

“These micros take a lot to get around the top here, and this thing was on a rail with grip for days.”

Bell’s victory marked his triumphant return to dirt racing after a two-year hiatus, setting the stage for his next challenge: the legendary Chili Bowl Nationals.


The Chili Bowl: A Battle of Titans

With Bell confirmed for the 2025 Chili Bowl, the competition is heating up. Joining him in Tulsa will be Chase Briscoe, Ty Gibbs, Kyle Larson, and Busch—all eager to claim victory on the dirt. Bell is no stranger to the Chili Bowl, having won the event three times. His confidence is soaring after his recent win in Illinois:

“I definitely have more confidence heading into the Tulsa Expo Center.”

But the lead-up to the Chili Bowl wasn’t without its share of laughs. Bell’s return to midget car racing was announced in the most “classic Bell” way possible. Earlier this year, he accidentally spilled the beans about Briscoe replacing Martin Truex Jr. during a press conference—long before JGR made it official. NASCAR fans turned the blunder into a meme, and Briscoe saw his chance for payback.

In true Briscoe fashion, he trolled his new teammate on social media, posting the video of Bell’s slip-up with the caption:

“Guess I’ll finally get him back for this. Pumped to see Christopher Bell back at @cbnationals this year.”

Bell’s response? A good-natured repost:

“See you guys at Chili Bowl 2025.”


Ty Gibbs Joins the Dirt Party

Joe Gibbs’ grandson, Ty Gibbs, isn’t sitting this one out either. Ty grew up racing Outlaw Karts and is thrilled to return to dirt under JGR’s new policy. With Bell, Briscoe, Larson, and Busch in the mix, Ty will have his work cut out for him, but the Chili Bowl’s energy promises to bring out the best in all competitors.


Is Joe Gibbs Taking Too Big a Risk?

While fans are thrilled to see JGR drivers back in dirt racing, some critics argue that Gibbs’ decision is risky. Dirt racing has always been notorious for its potential dangers, and even minor injuries could derail a driver’s NASCAR season. However, Gibbs seems to have placed his trust in the professionalism and passion of his team.

Alpern’s perspective underscores the long-term benefits of this decision:

“It’s about letting them reconnect with what they love. It’s a calculated risk, but one that keeps our drivers sharp and motivated.”


The Road Ahead: Dirt Dreams and NASCAR Glory

Joe Gibbs’ decision to lift the dirt-racing ban could redefine JGR’s legacy. By allowing his drivers to pursue their roots, he’s giving them the freedom to grow as racers while strengthening their connection to fans who’ve followed their dirt track careers.

For Bell, Briscoe, and Ty Gibbs, the Chili Bowl is more than just another race—it’s a proving ground where they can showcase their versatility and grit. With heavyweights like Larson and Busch also in the mix, the 2025 Chili Bowl promises to be a showdown for the ages.

So, did Joe Gibbs make the right call? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—dirt racing just got a lot more interesting. Buckle up, because Tulsa is about to get dirty!

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