Jesse Love, the reigning NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion, will join the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma, piloting a car managed by NASCAR Cup Series crew chief Blake Harris for the 2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing team. This marks a notable crossover as Love brings his NASCAR title-winning reputation to compete in one of the most prestigious midget racing events at the SageNet Center next January.
Love’s Entry Shines a Spotlight on Midget Racing
The Chili Bowl Nationals stands as the premier stage in midget racing, annually gathering elite drivers from across the country at the SageNet Center in Tulsa. Jesse Love’s participation elevates this year’s field, blending top-level stock car credentials with a proven dirt racing background. His move has generated excitement among both fans and competitors, as it represents a rare transition from the NASCAR circuit to the unique demands of dirt track racing.
Background: Love’s Impressive Dirt and Track Record
Jesse Love is not new to dirt racing, having claimed victories in the Xtreme Outlaw National Midget Series and POWRi West, along with setting a USAC record at Gas City I-69 Speedway. These achievements, alongside his 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series championship, make him one of the most versatile and formidable drivers set to tackle the Chili Bowl this year.
2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing Lineup Expands for 2026
Texas-based 2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing, owned by Dan and Patricia Harris, will broaden its commitment to the Chili Bowl in its twelfth year of competition. The team plans to field five cars for 2026, driven by Jesse Love, Matt Sherrell, Luke Storer, Tanner Berryhill, and Jeb Sessums. This lineup underscores the team’s dedication to the event and the depth of talent at its disposal.
Broadcast Coverage and Added Features for Fans
FloRacing will be the exclusive streaming provider for the Chili Bowl Nationals, delivering continuous coverage of what’s widely regarded as “The World’s Greatest Midget Race.” Fans can expect enhanced content throughout the week, as the Chili’s Grill & Bar Pre-Race and Post-Race Show has been introduced to further enrich the coverage, making it a can’t-miss event for dirt racing enthusiasts and NASCAR fans alike.
What This Means for the Racing Community
Jesse Love’s participation in the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals signals growing crossover interest between NASCAR and midget racing, potentially drawing new audiences to the event. With drivers like Matt Sherrell, Luke Storer, Tanner Berryhill, and Jeb Sessums joining Love under the 2nd Opinion Auto Center Racing banner, the stage is set for an exciting showcase of talent in Tulsa, promising fierce competition and heightened anticipation for dirt racing fans nationwide.
