Christopher Bell accidentally confirms big Joe Gibbs Racing rumor?

Christopher Bell accidentally spilled the beans Friday on who’s expected to replace Martin Truex Jr. at Joe Gibbs Racing next season.

Last week, Truex announced his plans to retire from full-time racing at the end of the season. Reports have emerged since the announcement that Chase Briscoe is the favorite to be driving Truex’s No. 19 Toyota next year.

Bell basically confirmed the reports on Friday while speaking to the media.

The 29-year-old was asked if he would be taking on an increased leadership role at Joe Gibbs Racing once Truex departs. Bell answered that all the team’s drivers share leadership duties before inadvertently blurting out who else was joining them in the garage.

“Whenever Chase [Briscoe] comes into the car,” Bell said before realizing his slip-up.

“I don’t even know what to say,” an embarrassed Bell continued. “Whenever we have a new driver into the 19 car, whoever that is, their experience level will dictate how much input they have on the team.”