[autotag]Christopher Bell[/autotag] appeared to have a car that would challenge eventual champion Ryan Blaney on the long runs at Phoenix Raceway; however, Bell’s day ended in a stunning fashion. The No. 20 car lost its brakes and ran into the wall. Bell’s car was destroyed and so were his hopes of winning a NASCAR Cup Series championship.
Last year, a caution and bad pit stop ended his chances at a title and another development out of his control did it again. Following the race, Bell talked about the incident and how he felt about losing out on a chance at winning the 2023 Cup Series title.
“I just ran out of brakes,” Bell said. “We’ve had really strong brakes all year long and haven’t had any issues, so it’s quite surprising to have a brake issue at a track where they are important but not as important as others.”
Christopher Bell is eliminated from the #Championship4!
HUGE IMPACT into the wall.
📺 : NBC and Peacock pic.twitter.com/OmoZVTd6V8— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) November 5, 2023
“It’s been good and I’m proud of the efforts, especially in the playoffs to make the final four…I’m not upset. You know, everyone’s trying their hardest and obviously, it’s just a part of it. I’m disappointed but it just wasn’t meant to be. I think right now, I’m still probably a little shocked and it probably hasn’t sunk in yet. But can only change what’s ahead of you.”
Bell only had two wins during the 2023 NASCAR season while he and crew chief Adam Stevens believe there is more potential for success. It is a very rough end of the year for Bell but there is no doubt that he will be back in the Championship 4 again. Bell is one of NASCAR’s best drivers and 2024 could be the year he finally breaks out as the best.
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