As Christopher Bell speeds toward a possible record in NASCAR’s Cup Series, he’s haunted by the specter of a curse that has plagued some of the sport’s most promising talents. This so-called curse, known for halting winning streaks at the fourth race, has been a thorn in the side of drivers like Jimmie Johnson, who was the last to claim four consecutive victories back in 2007. Bell, on the precipice of making history with his three-race winning streak, is well aware of the pressure that mounts with each passing victory.
Bell’s spectacular performances at Atlanta, COTA, and Phoenix have made him the standout driver of the 2025 season. His nerve-wracking overtime pass at Atlanta, his masterful run in Las Vegas, and a thrilling photo finish at Phoenix where he edged out Denny Hamlin by a mere 0.049 seconds, have made his 2025 campaign nothing short of a spectacle. Bell himself acknowledged the intensity of the competition, stating, “Denny wasn’t going to give me an inch. But I had to go for it.”
The history of NASCAR however, hangs like a specter over Bell’s quest for the four-race win. Time and again, mishaps, tire blowouts, and costly mistakes have derailed what seemed like sure-fire victories. Most notably, Kyle Busch, who seemed invincible in 2018, saw his own winning streak crushed at Talladega. Despite a strong showing and excellent team coordination, Busch’s dream was shattered with a massive 14-car collision that ended his run.
Echoes of this ill-fated race were seen again with Kevin Harvick in 2018, when a clash with Kyle Larson at Fontana ended his winning streak. Larson himself faced a similar fate when his Chevrolet crashed into the barriers on the final turn due to an exploded left front tire.
Despite these ominous precedents, Bell’s crew chief, Adam Stevens, remains optimistic. Stevens’ confidence stemmed from their No. 20 car breaking a 19-race winless streak that began in New Hampshire the previous July. Furthermore, he underlined their success this season, stating, “We’ve seen this year, (winning) three out of four times, things are going our way.”
Bell and his crew chief are convinced they can break the curse. In an Instagram post, Bell confidently declared, “We’re not gonna win them all….but we’re damn sure gonna try! Love this team!” Even Coach Gibbs believes the team, combining Stevens’ experience and Bell’s talent, has the winning formula.
As Bell gears up to face his destiny, one question looms large: Will he break the curse, or will he be its next victim? All eyes will be on the Las Vegas Speedway, especially after Denny Hamlin’s recent comments expressing skepticism about the sustainability of Bell’s winning streak.
Hamlin, while acknowledging Bell’s skills and talent, questioned the sustainability of his winning streak. He pointed out how even the fastest driver only wins about 30% of the time, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sport.
Bell’s record at the Las Vegas Speedway also raises concerns. Despite competing in 10 Cup Series races at the track, he has yet to claim a victory. However, considering his stunning performance this season, Bell might just be the one to break the curse and write a new chapter in NASCAR history.