Christopher Bell, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, has been a dominant force in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, securing three wins within the first sixteen races and ranking third in the overall points behind William Byron and Kyle Larson. A significant contributor to Bell’s sustained success in stock car racing is his ongoing participation in dirt track racing throughout the week.
Continuing His Roots in Dirt Racing Alongside NASCAR
Bell’s racing foundation is deeply rooted in dirt track and sprint car events, much like Larson’s background. With the encouragement of Joe Gibbs Racing, he maintains a part-time dirt track schedule even while competing full-time in the No. 20 Toyota Camry XSE in the Cup Series. In a recent discussion with Jeff Gluck, Bell revealed how vital this dual involvement is to his performance.
Responding to a question posed by Trackhouse Racing’s Daniel Suarez, Bell shared that he has already competed in ten dirt track races in 2025 and expects to participate in 20 to 30 by year’s end. He elaborated,
Do I think running a dirt car directly helps running a Sunday Cup car? I do not. But it is a great mental reset to just get away from the grind of the Cup Series.
—Christopher Bell, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
The Mental Benefits of Racing in Both Disciplines
While Bell does not fully understand the connection between sprint car and stock car racing, he acknowledges that success in one can positively impact the other. He places great value on the diversion dirt track racing provides, especially during tough weekends on NASCAR’s oval tracks. Bell explained the mental relief it brings after setbacks on the Cup circuit.
I don’t know how many times throughout my career, you have a bad Sunday, you debrief on Monday, and then you’re off Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, just stewing on your mistake or your bad race,
—Christopher Bell, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
If you have something during the week to go out and put your focus on something else, it helps to break that mental slide.
—Christopher Bell, Joe Gibbs Racing Driver
Notable Dirt Track Victories Boosting Bell’s Confidence
Bell recently triumphed in the Non-Wing Outlaw division at the 2025 Tulsa Shootout, edging out Kyle Larson in a thrilling photo finish. He also claimed victory at the prestigious Chili Bowl Race of Champions, an exclusive dirt racing event featuring some of the most prominent names in the sport. These wins highlight Bell’s growing momentum on the dirt tracks.
Implications for Bell’s Future in NASCAR
Given Bell’s intention to increase his dirt racing schedule this year, more high-profile victories appear likely. Maintaining this balance between dirt track competition and NASCAR Cup racing not only provides crucial mental breaks but may enhance his performance on the oval as well. Bell’s distinctive approach positions him as a strong contender for the Cup Series championship in 2025.