Since his full-time debut in the Cup series in 2020, and particularly after transitioning to Joe Gibbs Racing the following season, Christopher Bell has displayed consistency, clinching victory in half a dozen races and securing a spot in the Championship 4 for the past two seasons.
However, the No. 20 Toyota team has yet to consistently dominate races and avoid errors, which is essential for establishing itself as a perennial contender for victory.
However, Bell’s recent triumph may signal a turning point. Winning Stage 2, overcoming a pit road mishap, and mounting a comeback from 20th to take the lead after the final pit stop showcased his team’s ability to bounce back from setbacks and, crucially, win at Phoenix – a track where the season’s champion is crowned in November.
“This is an important one. If you’re not good here, you’re never going to be a champion,” remarked the 29-year-old driver. “I just hope that this gives a little bit more insight to the world the capability that the No. 20 team has.”
Reflecting on the past two seasons, Bell acknowledged glimpses of potential but stressed the need to translate it into consistent success. “I feel like the last two years through the Next Gen era, myself and everyone inside of our team have seen glimpses of the potential but haven’t really been able to live it to fruition yet.”
He added, “I mean, I say this a lot, and the rest is up to us to make it happen, but I feel like this is just the beginning.”
While reaching the Championship 4 in consecutive seasons is commendable, Bell envisions greater achievements. “Making the Final 4 and winning one or two races a year, that’s not our final goal. We don’t want to be a one- or two-win team a year.”
Bell’s victory underscored a significant day for Toyota teams at Phoenix. Toyota drivers dominated the race, leading nearly all laps.
Reflecting on this performance, Bell noted the progression since the introduction of the Next Gen car. “We’re on the winning side of it this time. But the field is going to be tighter, and I would expect the favorites are going to be upfront whenever we come back in November.”
Also read: Buescher Expresses Pride Following Second-Place Finish at Phoenix
