Christopher Bell delivered another memorable performance at the Tulsa Expo Center on Monday, clinching his fourth Race of Champions win during the Chili Bowl Nationals and reinforcing his reputation as one of the event’s top competitors. The Christopher Bell Chili Bowl victory was marked by a commanding wire-to-wire run, capping a day in which Bell excelled in every stage of competition.
Bell’s Record-Tying Win at the Tulsa Expo Center
Representing Norman, Oklahoma, and competing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for Joe Gibbs Racing, Bell continued to add to his collection of coveted Golden Drillers trophies. Racing the Rheem-sponsored No. 21, Bell secured the fastest lap in qualifying and was fortunate to draw the zero position for the field invert, granting him a prime spot on the grid. From the drop of the flag to the checkered, Bell set the pace without giving up the lead, showcasing his command of both dirt and pavement racing against a stacked lineup of fellow champions.
This year presented a unique challenge for Bell as he fielded his own Midget, a departure from previous years when he drove for powerhouse teams like Keith Kunz Motorsports and CB Industries. Notably, the car preparation was a personal affair—Bell, his father-in-law, and his small crew handled all the work themselves after returning from the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race at Phoenix Raceway in November. This hands-on approach added another layer of pressure and satisfaction to the triumph.
Challenges of Racing as an Independent Entrant
Bell’s victory came after intense emotional and technical preparation. He reflected on the added responsibility of building and racing his own machine, saying,
It just makes everything a lot more stressful,
Christopher Bell, post-race winner. He continued by acknowledging the personal meaning of this win, adding,
I was about ready to puke before the race, wondering if it’s right, if it’s wrong, what are we doing? I think it just makes it a lot more rewarding, and last year, when I won that [Tulsa Shootout] in my Micro [Sprint], I was like this is the enjoyment you get from being part of the whole process.
Christopher Bell, post-race winner.
During his interview, Bell drew a contrast with previous years, remarking on the difference between driving for established teams and shouldering the responsibility himself.
I’ve been so fortunate to come here with Keith Kunz Motorsports, with Chad Boat and drive amazing racecars with great crew chiefs, and it’s just a lot different when it’s all on you,
Christopher Bell, post-race winner.
Close Competition and Race Highlights
Shane Golobic mounted a determined challenge in the final stretches of the 25-lap main event, attempting to close the gap as Bell encountered lapped traffic. Despite Golobic’s efforts, Bell maintained his lead and secured the win. Logan Seavy followed closely and finished in third place, while Ryan Timms and Spencer Bayston claimed the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. The remainder of the top ten included Tanner Thorson, defending NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson, Emerson Axsom, Daison Pursley, and Michael Pickens—all notable names in dirt and stock car racing scenes.
The race featured only one major incident, involving Corey Day, a full-time competitor in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Day experienced a dramatic flip in Turns 3 and 4 while he was fighting for a top-ten position, highlighting both the intensity and unpredictability of the event. Meanwhile, Jesse Love, reigning champion of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, finished sixteenth, and ARCA Menards Series part-timer Kaylee Bryson ended her race in twentieth place, further demonstrating the depth and diversity of the driver lineup.
Historical Context and Future Prospects for Bell
By capturing his fourth Race of Champions title, Bell pulled level with legendary driver Sammy Swindell for the most wins in this coveted event. Notably, Bell recognized that while he has now tied the all-time record, he has yet to claim both the Race of Champions and Saturday night’s prestigious main event in the same year, a distinction he aims to conquer in future competitions.
Christopher Bell’s latest Chili Bowl Nationals triumph not only underscores his individual talent and determination but also highlights the evolving competitiveness of grassroots dirt racing. As Bell and other top-tier professionals continue to invest personally in their Chili Bowl campaigns, the event’s stature and intensity only increase, promising more thrilling showdowns in years to come.
It wasn't easy, but @CBellRacing goes wire-to-wire for back-to-back Race of Champions victories at the #ChiliBowl powered by @NosEnergyDrink! pic.twitter.com/PrT5EuGicT
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) January 13, 2026
