Which Dirt Races Is Christopher Bell Running After Joe Gibbs’ Long-Awaited Clearance?

Key Takeaways:

• Joe Gibbs lifted the ban on non-NASCAR races for his drivers.
• Christopher Bell is returning to dirt track racing immediately following the ban lift.
• Bell’s schedule includes major events like the Tulsa Shootout and Chili Bowl Nationals.
• Bell expressed excitement about his return to sprint car racing.
• There are concerns about how this will affect his NASCAR Cup Series performance.

Christopher Bell Returns to Dirt Racing After Ban Lift

Joe Gibbs, owner of Joe Gibbs Racing, has lifted the ban on his Cup Series drivers participating in races outside of NASCAR. This decision has opened the door for Christopher Bell, one of NASCAR’s prominent drivers, to return to his roots in dirt track racing—a realm where he has previously found significant success.

Immediate Participation in the Tulsa Shootout

Bell is currently in Tulsa, Oklahoma, competing in the 2025 Tulsa Shootout. He is racing in both the Winged Outlaw and Non-Wing Outlaw divisions with the No. 21x Bill-Kemenah Racing Micro Sprint team. The event, concluding on January 4, marks Bell’s swift action following the policy change.

Upcoming Races on the Dirt Circuit

Following the Tulsa Shootout, Bell will participate in the Chili Bowl Nationals from January 12 to 18. He will drive the No. 71W for Keith Kunz Motorsports—the same car number with which he won three consecutive Golden Driller trophies from 2017 to 2019. This connection to his past victories adds an element of nostalgia and challenge to his return.

In February, Bell will make his 410 Sprint Car return with Kreitz Racing’s No. 69K team at the World of Outlaws season opener on February 5. Should everything go according to plan, he will also race at Volusia Speedway on February 6. His packed schedule continues with the Kubota High Limit Racing Series season opener in Las Vegas on March 13.

Bell’s Enthusiasm for the Return

Expressing his excitement about diving back into dirt racing, Bell told FloRacing, “I’ve been out of Sprint Car racing for a while, so I’m looking forward to getting my feet wet and seeing how comfortable I am in my return.” His eagerness highlights his passion for the sport and readiness to face new challenges.

Expectations from Peers

Kyle Larson, one of Bell’s biggest competitors on dirt tracks, has high expectations for Bell’s comeback. He admitted he “wouldn’t be surprised if Bell won his first race back,” underscoring the respect and anticipation from fellow racers.

Performance at the Tulsa Shootout

Despite his enthusiasm, Bell is yet to secure a win in the ongoing Tulsa Shootout. His best finish so far is a runner-up position in the Heat Races of his divisions. On the third day of competition, he finished second in the Stock Non-Wing class after starting from seventh place in Race 183. There is still progress to be made before he can compete among the 24 featured drivers racing for the Golden Driller trophy on the final day.

Balancing NASCAR Commitments

Bell’s extensive dirt racing schedule over the next three months raises questions about its impact on his NASCAR Cup Series performance. With the intensity and demands of both circuits, Joe Gibbs can only hope that Bell’s passion for dirt racing complements rather than detracts from his commitments on the asphalt.

Conclusion

Christopher Bell’s return to dirt track racing signifies a significant moment in his career, blending his past successes with new ambitions. As he navigates a busy schedule filled with prestigious events, fans and the racing community alike watch eagerly to see how this journey unfolds and how it might influence his performance in the NASCAR Cup Series.