There are a fair number of NASCAR Cup drivers, who don’t limit themselves to just one series. Instead, they broaden their horizons and are willing to compete in other racing series. Hendrick Motorsports driver Kyle Larson is well-known for this, as is former champion Tony Stewart. Even Joe Gibbs Racing driver Christopher Bell is known for racing outside the NASCAR arena. Unfortunately, it seems like his extra-curricular activities may be stopped soon.

A portion of his recent interview with David Gravel was posted to Twitter by @The_Work_Area. He said, “I love the Chili Bowl, it’s a very special place to me. Definitely, the largest event that I grew up going to, as a kid. It means the world to me that I’ve been able to win it.

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But Joe Gibbs has been extremely vocal about his – I don’t want to use the word hatred – but it’s pretty close to hatred towards dirt track racing. He does not love dirt track racing or open wheel racing at all.”

What convinced Christopher Bell to continue his dirt racing career?

Apparently, Bell had the late Coy Gibbs to thank for helping get some leeway to pursue dirt racing simultaneously. The younger Gibbs was able to have some influence on his father. However, without him, the seniormost Gibbs has stood firm against competing in other racing series.

Bell continued, “Me and Coy [Gibbs] had a great relationship. I would always follow my dirt track stuff through Coy. He loved it, he thought it was really good for me to do. He would kind of tell his dad that we talked about it, and he thought that it was fine for me to do.

“Obviously, Coy passed away in November and I kind of lost that connection. Joe was very vocal about me not dirt track racing. So for the time being, I’m not going to be dirt track racing.”

One can see where Joe Gibbs is coming from because there is a risk of a driver getting injured. This would cause a massive headache for the team, especially if they have to draft a quick-fix replacement. Additionally, the driver’s absence could potentially cost the team the Owner’s Championship.

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