Christopher Bell’s Winning Streak: A Phenomenal Feat
In the world of NASCAR, victories are hard-fought and cherished. Kyle Larson, a seasoned driver, knows this feeling all too well. He was the last to achieve the remarkable feat of winning three consecutive NASCAR Cup Series races during his championship season in 2021. However, as of late, a new name has emerged on the scene—Christopher Bell.
Bell, one of Larson’s biggest rivals, has been on a winning streak that has everyone in the NASCAR community smiling from ear to ear. Following victories at Atlanta and Circuit of the Americas, Bell clinched his third race trophy in just 15 days at Phoenix Raceway. This achievement is nothing short of historic, as it marks the first time a driver has won three consecutive Cup races with the Next Gen car introduced in 2022.
The Triumph at Phoenix Raceway
Bell’s win at Phoenix Raceway was nothing short of thrilling. Leading an impressive 105 of the 312 laps, he seemed destined for victory. However, as is often the case in NASCAR, the race was not without its share of challenges. In a nail-biting finish, Bell found himself locked in a side-by-side battle with his Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Denny Hamlin, in the final two-lap dash to the finish line. In a heart-stopping moment, Bell edged out Hamlin by a mere 0.049 seconds to secure the win.
Reflecting on the intense final laps, Bell shared, “I thought I had lost the race… I don’t know how I won. I do know how I won. The [No.] 5 car [of Larson] gave me a great shove… and that was the difference maker.”
Bell’s Victory Streak
For Bell, this win marked his 12th Cup victory, with three consecutive wins at three vastly different tracks. From a drafting track at Atlanta to a road course at COTA and a flat one-mile track at Phoenix, Bell has showcased his versatility as a driver. At Phoenix Raceway, teams faced the added challenge of choosing between two different tire options during the race—a strategic element that added an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
Looking at Bell’s recent string of wins, Hamlin, his teammate, expressed his admiration, saying, “Is it our cars better? Is it circumstances in a speedway race or road-course race… I guess he probably dominated. Circumstance or not, three in a row is pretty impressive.”
The Enigmatic Success of Christopher Bell
Bell’s success has left many in the NASCAR community in awe, including his team owner, Joe Gibbs. Reflecting on Bell’s remarkable winning streak, Gibbs remarked, “I don’t know that I have an answer for that.” However, one thing is clear—Bell’s talent and partnership with crew chief Adam Stevens are a winning combination. Gibbs praised their dynamic, acknowledging the exceptional talent and skill they bring to the track.
From Struggles to Triumph
For Bell, the transition from a winless second half of 2024 to a triumphant start in 2025 has been a testament to resilience and determination. Reflecting on the challenges he faced in the past, Bell shared, “We should have won a lot, but we didn’t win any. It was just bad fortune… now we’re clicking.”
Looking Ahead
As Bell’s winning streak continues, the NASCAR community is abuzz with anticipation. With upcoming races in Las Vegas and Homestead, Bell’s prowess on the track will be put to the test once again. Larson, acknowledging Bell’s speed and skill, shared, “It’s good to get on a streak this early in the year… It just sets your season up in a good spot.”
As the NASCAR season unfolds, all eyes will be on Christopher Bell, waiting to see if he can continue his winning streak and make history in the process. The excitement is palpable, and fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this remarkable journey.
Bob Pockrass covers NASCAR and INDYCAR for FOX Sports. With a wealth of experience in motorsports journalism, Pockrass brings a seasoned perspective to the world of racing. Follow him on Twitter @bobpockrass for the latest updates and insights from the track.
