UPDATE: NASCAR driver Christopher Bell has dedicated his stunning victory at the NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee to conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically murdered earlier this week. This heartfelt tribute comes just moments after Bell climbed out of his #20 DEWALT Toyota following the race on Saturday.
“This one’s for Charlie,” Bell declared, emphasizing the emotional weight of the week’s events. “It wasn’t pretty there at the end, but we got her done. Most importantly, this week’s obviously been a very tough week. You know, there’s a lot on our minds.”
Kirk, revered as the co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot on the campus of Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. He was 31 years old and succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a hospital in critical condition.
The alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, 22, was apprehended after a two-day manhunt, following family intervention that persuaded him to surrender. The shocking nature of this violence has drawn widespread condemnation and tributes from across the sports community.
In solidarity, teams and athletes have been paying their respects. During a game against the San Francisco Giants, Blake Treinen, a pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, wore a hat emblazoned with Kirk’s name and a cross. The Chicago Cubs held a “moment of reflection” before their Friday game, honoring Kirk as a lifelong fan and calling for an end to political violence.
The New York Yankees were the first to acknowledge Kirk, observing a moment of silence before their game against the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday. Additionally, the NFL announced that teams could decide on their tributes during games this weekend, following a moment of silence for Kirk during Thursday’s match between the Green Bay Packers and Washington Commanders.
“Last night’s moment was the league’s decision. It’s up to the clubs for this Sunday’s games,” stated an NFL spokesperson.
The loss of Charlie Kirk has resonated deeply, igniting conversations about political violence and its impact on communities. As tributes continue to pour in, the sports world is uniting in remembrance of a young man whose life was cut short.
As the situation develops, the NASCAR community and fans alike are rallying behind Bell’s dedication, highlighting the profound connections between sports, activism, and personal loss. Stay tuned for updates on ongoing tributes and reactions within the sports community.