Chase Briscoe reacts to Joe Gibbs Racing reversing course on dirt racing ban

Joe Gibbs Racing made a huge move last week, reversing their policy pertaining to their NASCAR Cup Series wheelmen participating in dirt racing.

For drivers like Christopher Bell and the incoming Chase Briscoe at JGR, the decision is a huge deal. That’s where they cut their teeth, and according to Jeff Gluck of The Athletic, Ty Gibbs has taken an interest in dirt as well.

“We sort of talked things over to come up with a process by which they can request to run certain races,” Gibbs said, via The Athletic. “If they get approval from everyone they need on our competition side, then they are free to run the race. That includes dirt, but also potentially other forms of racing.”

After the news came to light, Briscoe elaborated on his feelings, and it’s evident he’s enthusiastic about the decision. He has the opportunity to do some things that he wasn’t able to before now, and he’s happy for his teammates, as well.

“I think it just so happened that, you know, I came over here and I guess we have the majority now,” Briscoe joked, via Matt Weaver of Sportsnaut. “It’ll be fun though to especially see Christopher back on dirt, you know, just with all the stuff that he’s been able to do in his career and the battles that him and (Kyle) Larson had.

“For the fans, I think to be able to have that again is going to be really exciting. So yeah, I’m just thankful that I at least have the opportunity to go do it. You know, at first when I came over there, I thought even if I really wanted to go do like a memorial race that was important to me or something, I wouldn’t even have the option. Now I do so I’m thankful that they opened up the reins a little bit.”

As you can tell, this is a big deal for JGR and their drivers. In the last few years, drivers have been turning to extracurricular series. Whether that is the CARS Tour, ASA Stars, or sprint car racing. 

With how little practice there is in NASCAR at this point, and a few drivers disliking simulators, it makes sense. Getting their competitive juices flowing and competing at a high level on a regular basis is real.

Chase Briscoe is already joining Joe Gibbs Racing with a ton of hype, and he’ll certainly be more visible in the coming years with a top tier team. Being able to dirt race as well will only add to his popularity.

On3’s Jonathan Howard contributed to this article.