Without a doubt, Tony Stewart is one of the most iconic racers in NASCAR history. Along with his sensational driving skills, the 51-year-old has quite the image off the tracks. He is used to hanging out with some of the most popular NASCAR Cup Series racers. Recently, Stewart revealed how one of them was intimidated by Christopher Bell.

Earlier this year, Bell came out criticizing his boss Joe Gibbs for not allowing him to participate in any non-NASCAR races citing the risks involved. Despite the 28-year-old being deprived of such activities, a certain Hendrick Motorsports driver still felt inferior about his own capabilities.

Tony Stewart discloses the HMS star unnerved by Christopher Bell

Stewart recently made an appearance on “The Bubba the Love Sponge Show.” He gave some interesting insights there on his career and other off-the-track details. The discussion saw Stewart narrate the time when he was with Kyle Larson and they were watching a motorsport race together.

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He said, “Yeah, we were literally sitting in Atlanta in my motorhome. And we were watching a live stream of a USAC race in California and he [Kyle] goes ‘you need to watch this kid.’ I said what’s his name, he said ‘Christopher Bell.'”

At that moment Stewart wasn’t aware of Bell but what followed was an unimaginable statement. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion continued, “I said never heard of this kid. He [Kyle] goes, ‘You’re going to, he’s better than I am,’ that was literally Kyle Larson’s words.”

Eventually, Stewart did give his verdict on Larson’s claims. He said, “Now I’m not sure he’s [Bell] lived up to that I think. Kyle’s still better than Christopher is but Christopher is a huge talent for sure.” What’s more amazing is that over the years, despite Bell and Larson’s relationship not being at its best, the latter stood up for him earlier this year.

Kyle Larson defends Bell in his criticism of boss Joe Gibbs

Things haven’t been the same between Larson and Bell since the 2021 race at Watkins Glen. That being said, he came out in support of his fellow driver. He pointed out the skills he’ll be deprived of by missing out on off-NASCAR activities.

The 30-year-old explained the difference he feels when he participates in other races. Speaking on Stacking Pennies with Crey LaJoie podcast, he said, “So I think racing about a half is like racing a half a mile for a wing sprint car... All of it, late model and sprint cars are just double fire restarts too. It teaches you ultra aggression, you know, for 30 laps to 50 laps races, so I think that part helps a lot.”

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It is a shame that Christopher Bell is being deprived of engaging in other formats. That being said, Tony Stewart isn’t convinced of Bell’s capabilities. For now, Larson remains his favorite.