Updated Oct. 25, 2026, 7:08 p.m. CT
Christopher Bell's chances of winning the 2026 NASCAR Chase diminished following a crash during the YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway on Oct. 25.
Bell, ranked second in the Chase standings, lost control of his No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota while entering pit road. The incident occurred in Stage 1 of the race.
After spinning into the inside wall, Bell made an additional pit stop for a tire change five laps later. He also received a pass-through penalty due to multiple crew members crossing the pit wall.
Despite leading for three laps, Bell finished last in Stage 1, which was won by Chris Buescher. He finished fourth at Phoenix on Oct. 18 and second at Charlotte on Oct. 11. His sole victory of the season came during the Chase opener at Darlington on Sept. 6.
Additional repairs were necessary to keep Bell competitive during the stage break.
Bell previously stated that he believed winning at least two of the last five races was essential to secure the championship. His best Cup finish at Talladega was fifth in 2021.
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