Live Feed Report: The Perfect Rivalry – Larson vs. Bell Heats Up at the Chili Bowl Nationals
Tulsa, Oklahoma, January 14, 2025 – The Chili Bowl Nationals is shaping up to be another epic chapter in the storied rivalry between Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell. These NASCAR heavyweights, who represent Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing respectively, have shared countless battles on both asphalt and dirt tracks, with their mutual respect fueling an intense yet healthy competition.
After a thrilling encounter at the Tulsa Shootout, the two will reignite their rivalry at the SageNet Center’s iconic dirt oval, vying for bragging rights in what is fondly referred to as the “Super Bowl of Midget Racing.”
Kyle Larson on the Rivalry
Reflecting on their long-standing competition, Kyle Larson acknowledged the impact their rivalry has had on his career. “For the last 12 years, we have competed with each other. Frequently. We’ve both pushed each other to get here, and I think it is good for any athlete to have that person or persons to push you,” Larson told FloRacing.
He added, “We’ve had a lot of great battles. He’s probably come out on top more often than me, at least back in the day. He had this stint where he wasn’t allowed to race, which was nice on me for sure.”
Larson is referencing the two-year dirt racing ban that Joe Gibbs Racing had placed on its drivers, a move aimed at reducing injury risks. The policy, however, hit Christopher Bell the hardest, given his deep roots in dirt racing.
Bell’s Return to Dirt Racing
The decision to lift the ban ahead of the 2025 season has reinvigorated Bell, who wasted no time making his mark by defeating Larson in the Non-Winged Outlaw category at the Tulsa Shootout. Speaking about his return, Bell expressed his excitement: “I grew up running these things, and I love them.”
Dirt racing is more than a hobby for Bell—it’s where his passion for motorsports was born. His return to micro-sprints has also been welcomed by Larson, who stated, “As a fan of the sport and a competitor who wants to get better, I’m grateful that he’s back racing dirt.”
A Rivalry for the Ages
The duo’s clash at the Tulsa Shootout was a spectacle. Starting in the 14th position, Larson worked his way through the grid to challenge Bell, who had started on the front row. Ultimately, Bell edged out Larson with a decisive move off Turn 4, claiming victory in a race that left fans buzzing.
Veteran driver Kenny Wallace summed it up perfectly: “Bell vs. Larson. Oh my God, it did not disappoint. These are the two greatest NASCAR drivers of our era. That’s the rivalry we’ve all been looking for.”
What’s Next?
With both drivers narrowly missing out on the Championship 4 in the NASCAR Cup Series, the Chili Bowl Nationals offers an opportunity for redemption. Fans can expect more thrilling battles as these two legends of dirt and asphalt push each other to the limit.
Christopher Bell and Kyle Larson aren’t just racing for wins—they’re racing to define an era. As the off-season concludes, all eyes will be on the Daytona International Speedway in February, where their rivalry will resume on the grandest stage of NASCAR. Stay tuned!
