NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series champion Jesse Love is set to compete in the 40th Chili Bowl Nationals, aiming to make an impact at the prestigious midget car racing event in Tulsa, Oklahoma next week. The Jesse Love Chili Bowl Nationals bid puts the 20-year-old driver back on the dirt track where his racing career began.
High Anticipation for Annual Tulsa Event
Hosted at the SageNet Center between January 12 and 17, the Chili Bowl Nationals is recognized as the world’s premier Midget car race. Each year, the event attracts over 300 drivers globally, who race on a temporary quarter-mile dirt oval assembled indoors. The weeklong competition is a highlight of the motorsports calendar, bringing together top talent from various racing backgrounds to test their skills under one roof.
Love’s Persistent Pursuit for the Championship Finale
This year marks Jesse Love’s fourth attempt at conquering the Chili Bowl Nationals since his debut in 2021. In his previous three appearances, Love has not managed to secure a spot in the championship finale, with his best result being a 13th-place B-Main finish during his first try. He will drive a Midget car provided by Blake Harris, who is notably the crew chief for Alex Bowman in the NASCAR Cup Series and part of Hendrick Motorsports.
Returning to Dirt Track Roots
Before earning championships in the ARCA Menards Series and the West Series, Love focused on developing his skills at dirt tracks nationwide. The Menlo Park, California native has compiled an impressive collection of Midget car victories during his formative years, building the foundation that has supported his rise in the racing world. Competing at the Chili Bowl Nationals reflects his enduring connection to grassroots racing culture and to California’s motorsports community.
Broadcasts and Schedule for Racing Fans
Practice sessions for the 40th Chili Bowl Nationals commence on Sunday at 10 a.m. ET, with FloRacing providing live coverage for all seven days and nights. Fans can tune in starting Monday at 4 p.m. ET as preliminary racing begins, following the action as drivers—including Jesse Love—race for a coveted spot in the championship finale.
The return of Jesse Love to the Chili Bowl Nationals adds another chapter to his journey, reinforcing his reputation in both dirt and pavement circles. With determination and a competitive Midget car at his disposal, Love aims to build on past performances and vie for a breakthrough at one of the most renowned events in the sport.
