The image of the colorful M&M character blasting across the finish line is one of the most recognizable sights in modern motorsports. This vibrant icon represents a massive marketing partnership between Mars, Incorporated and NASCAR, but who is the person behind the wheel of that M&M car? The driver of the No. 00 Ford Mustang in the NASCAR Cup Series is Christopher Bell, a talented and rising star in the sport who has brought stability and performance to the iconic sponsorship.
The Partnership Between M&M's and NASCAR
The relationship between M&M's and NASCAR is one of the most successful marketing collaborations in sports history. It began in 1999 with the introduction of the No. 33 car for Joe Gibbs Racing, driven by rookie driver Joe Nemechek. The bright colors of the M&M's branding immediately caught the eye of fans and provided a massive platform for the candy brand. This partnership was not just about slapping a logo on a car; it was a strategic alignment between two entertainment giants, creating a memorable and engaging brand presence that has lasted for over two decades.
The Legacy of the No. 33
For years, the M&M's brand was synonymous with the No. 33 car in the NASCAR Cup Series. This number became a powerhouse in the sport, winning numerous races and championships under drivers like Joe Nemechek, Matt Kenseth, and Joey Logano. The car's success on the track translated directly to sales for M&M's, proving the effectiveness of motorsports marketing. The legacy of this specific number is deeply rooted in the history of both the candy and the sport, setting a high standard for any driver who would eventually wear the M&M's livery.
Christopher Bell: The Current M&M
The driver who currently wears the M&M's colors is Christopher Bell. A native of Moapa, Nevada, Bell began his journey in the Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2021, taking over the legendary No. 20 car. His path to driving the M&M's car, however, came through a significant realignment within the team. In 2025, Joe Gibbs Racing made the strategic decision to swap the car numbers of its drivers. This move placed Bell in the No. 00, which is the car historically associated with the M&M's sponsorship, while teammate Denny Hamlin moved to the No. 20.
Bell's Performance and Consistency
Christopher Bell's transition to the M&M's car has been defined by consistency and the ability to compete at the highest level. Since joining Joe Gibbs Racing, he has proven himself as a driver who can win on any given Sunday, securing multiple race victories and championship contention. His calm demeanor and racecraft make him an ideal fit for the high-pressure environment of NASCAR. Fans and analysts alike recognize that Bell has not only filled the shoes of the M&M's legacy but has also begun to build his own chapter within it.
The Impact of the Driver on the Brand
The success of the M&M's NASCAR partnership relies heavily on the performance and personality of the driver. Christopher Bell embodies the qualities that the M&M brand represents: reliability, speed, and a touch of fun. His clean driving style and respectful interaction with fans help to maintain the positive image of the brand. When Bell pushes the car to the limit, it validates the years of investment Mars has made in the sport, ensuring that the M&M's logo remains a dominant and respected force on the track.
