Kyle Larson made a strong statement at the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals by capturing the preliminary feature victory on Monday night at the Tulsa Expo Raceway in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The highly anticipated event, featuring top dirt midget drivers including NASCAR standouts, set the stage for an action-packed week and confirmed Larson’s determination to chase another Golden Driller trophy at this iconic event.
Kyle Larson Claims Ninth Preliminary Night Win
Racing the #1K sprint car, reigning Chili Bowl Nationals champion and two-time NASCAR Cup Series titleholder Kyle Larson continued his exceptional streak, nabbing Monday’s preliminary feature. This win not only secures his place in Saturday’s main event at the SageNet Center but also positions him to compete for his fourth Golden Driller, solidifying his status among the elite on dirt and asphalt alike. In pursuit of this victory, Larson overtook Cannon McIntosh on Lap 10 and successfully fended off a challenge from Briggs Danner in the final laps, marking his ninth victory on a Chili Bowl prelim night–a testament to his consistency at the Tulsa-based spectacle.
Christopher Bell Dominates Race of Champions
Kyle Larson faced stiff competition from fellow NASCAR driver Christopher Bell, who piloted his own #21CB car to victory in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Race of Champions. Bell showed commanding form by leading every lap of the 25-lap contest, which he started from the pole. Shane Golobic pressed him on the final circuit, but Bell held on to take his second consecutive Race of Champions victory–a notable feat at the week-long festival of dirt racing talent in Oklahoma.
While Larson’s focus was on the preliminary feature, he also participated in the Race of Champions, beginning from the 10th position and ultimately finishing seventh. Both drivers’ performances displayed their versatility, sharpening the competitive edge ahead of Saturday’s climactic showdown.
Monday Night Results and Next Steps for Competitors
The first night of the 40th annual Chili Bowl Nationals showcased top talent and set the tone for the rest of the week. With preliminary nights serving as qualifiers for the main event, drivers like Cannon McIntosh, Briggs Danner, and stars across various disciplines battled for their spots, giving fans an early glimpse of who might contend for the championship.
The action continues through the week at Tulsa Expo Raceway, with the Warren CAT Qualifying Night scheduled next on Tuesday, January 13, starting at 5 pm ET. As the world’s premier midget race gathers momentum, anticipation builds for Saturday’s feature, where Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, and the best dirt midget drivers will compete under the bright lights of SageNet Center.
Beyond the victories and hot laps, the Chili Bowl Nationals remain a central event for the dirt racing community, drawing NASCAR champions and rising stars alike. With Kyle Larson Chili Bowl Nationals performances capturing attention, fans now await the next chapter of high-speed drama, as more drivers lock their positions for the coveted main event finale this weekend in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Back-to-back Monday victories for @KyleLarsonRacin after a great duel with @BriggsDanner78!
Both drivers lock into the Saturday A-Main for the 40th #ChiliBowl powered by @NosEnergyDrink. pic.twitter.com/Ng7j3poQQg
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) January 13, 2026
🏁 New car, no problem. @CBellRacing wins the #ChiliBowl Race of Champions for the first time as a car owner. Interview presented by @TjForged. pic.twitter.com/rsh3yXg3jh
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) January 13, 2026
