Christopher Bell showcased his talent and determination at the Chili Bowl Nationals by winning the O’Reilly Race of Champions on Monday night in Tulsa, Oklahoma, reinforcing his status as a force in the event. The focus keyword, Christopher Bell Chili Bowl Nationals, was at the center of attention as Bell demonstrated not only his skills on the track but also his ability to guide his own team to victory in one of the most prestigious midget car races.
Bell, who had finished eighth during practice, set the fastest time in time trials, and then led every lap for his fourth overall Race of Champions win. His performance left no doubt about his capabilities in a dual role as both driver and team leader for Christopher Bell Racing (CBR).
Personal Triumph and Team Effort Mark a New Era
Only hours before the race, Bell addressed the media with a candid approach.
“Win or lose, I’m here for a good time.”
— Christopher Bell, Driver and Owner-Operator. Despite his relaxed statement, Bell admitted he was feeling the pressure in the moments before the 25-lap feature.
“I was nervous, that’s for sure,”
Bell said. Referencing past successes with powerhouse teams led by Keith Kunz and Chad Boat, Bell reflected on the difference it made racing with his own equipment and trusted partners by his side. This new chapter, he said, added special meaning and pressure to his efforts on track.
“I have just turned the chapter in my life where I’ve been there, done that. Now, I wanted to try and do it on my own and with a group of people that I love around me. And it’s been the most rewarding thing I’ve done in a long time.”
— Christopher Bell, Driver and Owner-Operator. The transition from previous teams to leading CBR has brought heightened challenges, but also deep personal satisfaction for Bell.
Rivalries and Milestones Shape the Competition
Bell’s achievements are set against a field of tough competitors, including Kyle Larson and the legendary Swindell family. Larson, who tied Bell with three Chili Bowl wins after his 2025 victory and just earned a record ninth preliminary feature win, remains a key rival. Bell will have an opportunity to match this preliminary record later in the week.
Discussing the competitive environment, Bell said,
“We were watching tonight, and Kyle got in a little accident there in the heat race.”
He emphasized the difficulty of winning at this level, adding,
“So nothing’s guaranteed. Nothing’s guaranteed for him. Nothing’s guaranteed for me. And we’ve got to go out there and make it happen.”
— Christopher Bell, Driver and Owner-Operator. Looking to the future, Bell is energized more by the long-term outlook for his No. 21CB midget and the growth of Christopher Bell Racing than by personal rivalries alone.
Building a Racing Legacy with Friends and Teammates
Victory celebrations at the CBR trailer were joyous, with Bell joined by close friends Chris Ball and Colt Smith. After the end of the NASCAR season, Bell dedicated himself to assembling and developing his race team. Ball even transported equipment from North Carolina to Oklahoma, highlighting the strong support system surrounding Bell and his team.
CBR’s efforts are not limited to Bell alone; the team is also fielding a car for Kaidon Brown, a two-time Australian Speedcar Champion, who will make his qualifying run on Wednesday.
Appreciation for Support and Life Achievements
Reflecting on his career and the network of mentors who have shaped him, Bell expressed deep gratitude.
“Just super blessed, grateful, thankful for the people that have put their time and effort and commitment into me,”
Bell said. The influence of Pete Willoughby, Keith Kunz, Jack Irving, and Tyler Gibbs at TRD has been pivotal in Bell’s progression, both in open-wheel midget racing and the NASCAR Cup Series, where he drives the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota.
“And, Pete Willoughby, Keith Kunz, Jack Irving, Tyler Gibbs at TRD, those guys, they made me. They made me who I am, and I’m forever indebted to them and just taking it all in and soaking it all in.”
— Christopher Bell, Driver and Owner-Operator.
Bell likened his racing journey to winning the lottery, describing his place in motorsports with a mix of pride and humility.
“I get to race cars for a living,”
Bell said.
“Nobody would have been able to write the script of my life. Just so indebted, indebted to the people that have taken a chance on me. And the list is so incredibly long of people who have helped me get to this point. And if you remove any one of those people from the equation, I don’t end up where I am today.”
— Christopher Bell, Driver and Owner-Operator. He also expressed his desire to assist others in pursuing their own opportunities, saying,
“Just forever grateful and want to give back and do my part too to try and help someone else get this lottery ticket that I won.”
— Christopher Bell, Driver and Owner-Operator.
Outlook for Bell, CBR, and the Chili Bowl Nationals
Christopher Bell’s flag-to-flag triumph in the Race of Champions has intensified anticipation for the upcoming rounds of the Chili Bowl Nationals. His effort, both behind the wheel and as a team owner, sets a benchmark for determination and teamwork in this high-stakes event. With the support of his close-knit team, mentors such as Keith Kunz, and the growth of Christopher Bell Racing, Bell remains a central figure in the sport and a contender to watch as he pursues a historic fourth Golden Driller.
As Bell continues to shape his legacy and inspire those around him, the Chili Bowl Nationals audience looks forward to more compelling competition and memorable moments from the drivers at Tulsa Expo Raceway.
