David Gravel has been stationed in the catbird seat of the Sprint Car Driver standings all season long. Can red-hot Michael “Buddy” Kofoid make him sweat? The oddsmakers see a good battle brewing this weekend, so let’s check out the World of Outlaws Independence Spectacular Pre-Event Odds.
Gravel is the favorite, and Kofoid is not far behind, while defending champion Logan Schuchart is a bigger underdog than one might expect.
Place your wagers for this week’s World of Outlaws sprint car races at our partner sportsbooks.
Schedule and How to Watch WoO Independence Spectacular Night 1
Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wisconsin, will host the “Greatest Show on Dirt” on consecutive days on Friday, June 27th, and again on Saturday, June 28th. The gates open at 5 PM CT with 6:30 PM hot laps and racing to follow. DIRTVision broadcasts the evening’s festivities.
Odds Subject to Change
Please note that the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available when publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape.
For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article: Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change? Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.
Best Bets & Picks for WoO Independence Spectacular Night 1
Event Winner Odds
David Gravel wasn’t in his usual spot atop the podium at Huset’s Speedway last week, finishing fourth in three of the races and sixth in another. But his consistent success can’t be ignored, as the points leader is the favorite to add a tenth win of the season at the Independence Spectacular. Gravel started in second and finished third in this race a year ago. It’s been a tough stretch for Carson Macedo, who has finished outside the top 10 in each of his past five races. However, he returns to familiar ground where he finished fifth last time out.
Michael Kofoid was outstanding last week at Huset’s Speedway, winning a pair of races and finishing top three in the two others. He now averages 2.0 across his last five starts, which is even better than Gravel over the same period. The Independence Spectacular was good to Logan Schuchart last year after triumphing from pole position, but consistency has proved an issue this season. Finally, keep an eye on Bill Balog, who is priced as an extreme outsider, but returns to his home state off the back of a win and two runner-ups last weekend..
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Driver
Event Winner
Payout Per $20
David Gravel
+185
$57.00
Carson Macedo
+299
$79.80
Michael Kofoid
+405
$101.00
Sheldon Haudenschild
+628
$145.60
Logan Schuchart
+711
$162.20
Donny Schatz
+864
$192.80
Giovanni Scelzi
+1155
$251.00
Bill Balog
+2464
$512.80
Cole Macedo
+5108
$1041.60
Kerry Madsen
+6436
$1307.20
Chris Windom
+6436
$1307.20
Garet Williamson
+6436
$1307.20
Josh Schneiderman
+6436
$1307.20
Zach Hampton
+7713
$1562.60
Skylar Gee
+7713
$1562.60
Tim Kaeding
+7713
$1562.60
Andy Pake
+7713
$1562.60
Gage Pulkrabek
+9159
$1851.80
Scott Broty
+9159
$1851.80
Lucas Nellis
+9159
$1851.80
Christopher Thram
+9159
$1851.80
Todd King
+9159
$1851.80
Scott Winters
+9159
$1851.80
Ryan Bowers
+9159
$1851.80
Brendan Mullen
+9159
$1851.80
Expert Pick
Bill Balog: The value of this pick is too great to pass up for a man who stood on the podium after three consecutive races last week. His current form, coupled with his driving skills and familiarity with the track, should have him in the mix. Balog is projected to finish in the top 5, so a victory at +2464 odds is not out of the realm of possibility, and would make for a fantastic payout.
H2H Odds for WoO Independence Spectacular
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Matchup
Moneyline
Payout on $20
Bill Balog
+110
$42.00
Giovanni Scelzi
-147
$33.61
Carson Macedo
+120
$44.00
David Gravel
-160
$32.50
Michael Kofoid
-135
$34.81
Sheldon Haudenschild
+102
$40.40
Donny Schatz
-104
$39.23
Logan Schuchart
-128
$35.63
Underdog Fantasy Finishing Positions
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Driver
Finishing Position
David Gravel
2.5
Bill Balog
3.5
Michael Kofoid
3.5
Giovanni Scelzi
5.5
Sheldon Haudenschild
6.0
Logan Schuchart
6.5
Where to Bet on WoO Independence Spectacular Night 1
Michael “Buddy” Kofoid is the hottest driver on the World of Outlaws circuit over the last five races. Can he continue that momentum and close the gap on points leader David Gravel in New Richmond, Wisconsin? Can Bill Balog capitalize on his recent success and knowledge of Cedar Lake Speedway to make a longshot run at the victory
Armed with these insights, prepare to place your bets on the World of Outlaws Independence Spectacular. Secure the latest futures odds and special promotions at our affiliate sportsbooks to place your bets. Dive into our exclusive World of Outlaws Betting Guides for comprehensive analyses and betting tactics. Whether you’re backing the seasoned champions or rooting for the rookies, each ride promises a pulse-pounding experience.
Are there any specific times during the season that are better for betting?
Yes, there are certain moments during the season when you have a better chance of winning your bets. Some key moments to watch out for include major races like the season-long championship races.
Can I bet on World of Outlaws races online?
Absolutely! You can bet on World of Outlaws races online through various licensed sportsbooks that offer sprint car racing betting, such as DraftKings, Bet365, and BetCris.
Is live betting available for World of Outlaws races?
Yes, many sportsbooks offer live betting options for World of Outlaws races. This allows you to place bets in real-time as the race unfolds, allowing you to react to developments on the track and potentially capitalize on changing odds.
Are there any legal restrictions on betting on Sprint Car Racing?
Legal restrictions on betting differ depending on your state. While many states have legalized sports betting, including motorsports, others may still have prohibitions in place. It’s important to check your local laws and regulations regarding sports betting to ensure compliance before placing any wagers on Sprint Car Racing.
After 10 months of epic competition, the 2025 World of Outlaws regular season draws to a close this weekend. It’s the final chance for drivers on the cusp to book their ticket into the World Finals in one month. What a way to close out the season than competing in Louisiana’s premier late model contest. …
The World of Outlaws Late Model Series will open its 2026 season at Volusia Speedway Park as part of the DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals, continuing the series’ tradition of kicking off the year at Volusia since 2021. A practice night is scheduled for Jan. 21, followed by two 35-lap features on Jan. 22–23 that each pay $12,000 to the winner and a 50-lap, $20,000-to-win finale on Jan. 24. The card is presented under a combined “Late Model Palooza” banner that also includes Crate Racin’ USA DIRTcar Pro (604) Late Models and 602 Late Models, creating a multi-night program aimed at drawing a deep field and fans for high-stakes opening events.
Bobby Pierce arrives 11 weeks after clinching his second World of Outlaws championship and coming off a recent Wild West Shootout victory, beginning a run at a third series title and his first Sunshine Nationals straw hat; he is widely regarded as the man to beat. Top challengers entered include Nick Hoffman, who finished 56 points behind Pierce in 2025, Tim McCreadie returning full-time with Briggs Transport in the same package he used to close 2025, and Ryan Gustin, the defending Sunshine Nationals winner who posted five WoO wins in 2025. The entry list also highlights notable returns and rookie storylines: Tyler Erb is back full-time for the first time since 2018, MD3 Rookie of the Year candidates Trey Mills, Eli Johnson, and Logan Zarin are expected to run, and rookie Daulton Wilson will compete with Big Frog/Viper Motorsports.
Offseason personnel moves reshaped several teams heading into Volusia, including Ricky Thornton Jr. pairing with crew chief Anthony Burroughs at Koehler, Chris Madden joining Wells Motorsports, and Cory Hedgecock signing on with Billy Hicks Racing. Track changes are another variable: Volusia has been resurfaced with new gumbo clay and was evaluated in recent test sessions, a technical shift that could influence tire choices and car setups across the weekend. Taken together, the schedule, purses, revamped surface, and concentrated lineup of returnees and newcomers establish the DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals as a high-stakes, multi-night season opener for the 2026 World of Outlaws Late Model Series.
Brandon, South Dakota, is celebrating the Labor Day weekend right, with a double header of the “Greatest Show on Dirt.” David Gravel leads the charge in the World of Outlaws L.G. Everist Huset’s Shootout pre-event odds after capturing his 29th podium of the season last time out. Michael Kofoid and Carson Macedo line up in …
David Gravel, 33, of Watertown, Connecticut, entered the 2026 World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series season as the two-time defending champion (2024, 2025) in the Big Game No. 2 and will attempt a historic three-peat at Volusia Speedway Park’s Bike Week Jamboree on March 1–2. A three-peat in the World of Outlaws has previously been accomplished only by Steve Kinser, Donny Schatz and Brad Sweet.
Team accounts list 62 wins, 155 podiums, 229 top-five finishes and 309 top-10s in 354 Features; another account lists slightly lower totals — 62 wins, 153 podiums, 227 top fives and 307 top-10s across 351 Features. Those differing tallies reflect variations in source reporting but consistently show the program’s sustained success since Gravel joined.
Big Game opened the 2026 season in strong form, posting the quickest time in their qualifying flight on each of the three nights at the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals and earning two podiums at the event. Team owner Tod Quiring and a largely steady core staff provide continuity: Cody Jacobs has been Big Game’s crew chief since 2020, Zach Patterson the tire specialist since 2022, Pete Stephens returned as car chief, and Luke Vaughn was promoted to a full-time role for 2026 after joining late in 2025. Gravel credited that organizational continuity for fueling the back-to-back titles and named Michael Kofoid, Carson Macedo, Logan Schuchart and Sheldon Haudenschild as key challengers for the season.
Best Bets: World of Outlaws Independence Spectacular Night 1 Pre-Event Odds Analysis
Table of Contents
David Gravel has been stationed in the catbird seat of the Sprint Car Driver standings all season long. Can red-hot Michael “Buddy” Kofoid make him sweat? The oddsmakers see a good battle brewing this weekend, so let’s check out the World of Outlaws Independence Spectacular Pre-Event Odds.
Gravel is the favorite, and Kofoid is not far behind, while defending champion Logan Schuchart is a bigger underdog than one might expect.
Place your wagers for this week’s World of Outlaws sprint car races at our partner sportsbooks.
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Schedule and How to Watch WoO Independence Spectacular Night 1
Cedar Lake Speedway in New Richmond, Wisconsin, will host the “Greatest Show on Dirt” on consecutive days on Friday, June 27th, and again on Saturday, June 28th. The gates open at 5 PM CT with 6:30 PM hot laps and racing to follow. DIRTVision broadcasts the evening’s festivities.
Odds Subject to Change
Please note that the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available when publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape.
For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article: Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change? Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.
Best Bets & Picks for WoO Independence Spectacular Night 1
Event Winner Odds
David Gravel wasn’t in his usual spot atop the podium at Huset’s Speedway last week, finishing fourth in three of the races and sixth in another. But his consistent success can’t be ignored, as the points leader is the favorite to add a tenth win of the season at the Independence Spectacular. Gravel started in second and finished third in this race a year ago. It’s been a tough stretch for Carson Macedo, who has finished outside the top 10 in each of his past five races. However, he returns to familiar ground where he finished fifth last time out.
Michael Kofoid was outstanding last week at Huset’s Speedway, winning a pair of races and finishing top three in the two others. He now averages 2.0 across his last five starts, which is even better than Gravel over the same period. The Independence Spectacular was good to Logan Schuchart last year after triumphing from pole position, but consistency has proved an issue this season. Finally, keep an eye on Bill Balog, who is priced as an extreme outsider, but returns to his home state off the back of a win and two runner-ups last weekend..
swipe to see more
Expert Pick
Bill Balog: The value of this pick is too great to pass up for a man who stood on the podium after three consecutive races last week. His current form, coupled with his driving skills and familiarity with the track, should have him in the mix. Balog is projected to finish in the top 5, so a victory at +2464 odds is not out of the realm of possibility, and would make for a fantastic payout.
H2H Odds for WoO Independence Spectacular
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Underdog Fantasy Finishing Positions
swipe to see more
Where to Bet on WoO Independence Spectacular Night 1
Michael “Buddy” Kofoid is the hottest driver on the World of Outlaws circuit over the last five races. Can he continue that momentum and close the gap on points leader David Gravel in New Richmond, Wisconsin? Can Bill Balog capitalize on his recent success and knowledge of Cedar Lake Speedway to make a longshot run at the victory
Armed with these insights, prepare to place your bets on the World of Outlaws Independence Spectacular. Secure the latest futures odds and special promotions at our affiliate sportsbooks to place your bets. Dive into our exclusive World of Outlaws Betting Guides for comprehensive analyses and betting tactics. Whether you’re backing the seasoned champions or rooting for the rookies, each ride promises a pulse-pounding experience.
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Offer Score
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, there are certain moments during the season when you have a better chance of winning your bets. Some key moments to watch out for include major races like the season-long championship races.
Absolutely! You can bet on World of Outlaws races online through various licensed sportsbooks that offer sprint car racing betting, such as DraftKings, Bet365, and BetCris.
Yes, many sportsbooks offer live betting options for World of Outlaws races. This allows you to place bets in real-time as the race unfolds, allowing you to react to developments on the track and potentially capitalize on changing odds.
Legal restrictions on betting differ depending on your state. While many states have legalized sports betting, including motorsports, others may still have prohibitions in place. It’s important to check your local laws and regulations regarding sports betting to ensure compliance before placing any wagers on Sprint Car Racing.
Related Posts
Best Bets: 2025 World of Outlaws Bayou Classic Race 1 Pre-Event Odds Analysis
After 10 months of epic competition, the 2025 World of Outlaws regular season draws to a close this weekend. It’s the final chance for drivers on the cusp to book their ticket into the World Finals in one month. What a way to close out the season than competing in Louisiana’s premier late model contest. …
World of Outlaws Late Models Open at Volusia with $20K Final
The World of Outlaws Late Model Series will open its 2026 season at Volusia Speedway Park as part of the DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals, continuing the series’ tradition of kicking off the year at Volusia since 2021. A practice night is scheduled for Jan. 21, followed by two 35-lap features on Jan. 22–23 that each pay $12,000 to the winner and a 50-lap, $20,000-to-win finale on Jan. 24. The card is presented under a combined “Late Model Palooza” banner that also includes Crate Racin’ USA DIRTcar Pro (604) Late Models and 602 Late Models, creating a multi-night program aimed at drawing a deep field and fans for high-stakes opening events.
Bobby Pierce arrives 11 weeks after clinching his second World of Outlaws championship and coming off a recent Wild West Shootout victory, beginning a run at a third series title and his first Sunshine Nationals straw hat; he is widely regarded as the man to beat. Top challengers entered include Nick Hoffman, who finished 56 points behind Pierce in 2025, Tim McCreadie returning full-time with Briggs Transport in the same package he used to close 2025, and Ryan Gustin, the defending Sunshine Nationals winner who posted five WoO wins in 2025. The entry list also highlights notable returns and rookie storylines: Tyler Erb is back full-time for the first time since 2018, MD3 Rookie of the Year candidates Trey Mills, Eli Johnson, and Logan Zarin are expected to run, and rookie Daulton Wilson will compete with Big Frog/Viper Motorsports.
Offseason personnel moves reshaped several teams heading into Volusia, including Ricky Thornton Jr. pairing with crew chief Anthony Burroughs at Koehler, Chris Madden joining Wells Motorsports, and Cory Hedgecock signing on with Billy Hicks Racing. Track changes are another variable: Volusia has been resurfaced with new gumbo clay and was evaluated in recent test sessions, a technical shift that could influence tire choices and car setups across the weekend. Taken together, the schedule, purses, revamped surface, and concentrated lineup of returnees and newcomers establish the DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals as a high-stakes, multi-night season opener for the 2026 World of Outlaws Late Model Series.
Best Bets: World of Outlaws L.G. Everist Huset’s Shootout Pre-Event Odds Analysis
Brandon, South Dakota, is celebrating the Labor Day weekend right, with a double header of the “Greatest Show on Dirt.” David Gravel leads the charge in the World of Outlaws L.G. Everist Huset’s Shootout pre-event odds after capturing his 29th podium of the season last time out. Michael Kofoid and Carson Macedo line up in …
David Gravel, Big Game Seek Outlaws Three-Peat at Volusia
David Gravel, 33, of Watertown, Connecticut, entered the 2026 World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series season as the two-time defending champion (2024, 2025) in the Big Game No. 2 and will attempt a historic three-peat at Volusia Speedway Park’s Bike Week Jamboree on March 1–2. A three-peat in the World of Outlaws has previously been accomplished only by Steve Kinser, Donny Schatz and Brad Sweet.
Team accounts list 62 wins, 155 podiums, 229 top-five finishes and 309 top-10s in 354 Features; another account lists slightly lower totals — 62 wins, 153 podiums, 227 top fives and 307 top-10s across 351 Features. Those differing tallies reflect variations in source reporting but consistently show the program’s sustained success since Gravel joined.
Big Game opened the 2026 season in strong form, posting the quickest time in their qualifying flight on each of the three nights at the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals and earning two podiums at the event. Team owner Tod Quiring and a largely steady core staff provide continuity: Cody Jacobs has been Big Game’s crew chief since 2020, Zach Patterson the tire specialist since 2022, Pete Stephens returned as car chief, and Luke Vaughn was promoted to a full-time role for 2026 after joining late in 2025. Gravel credited that organizational continuity for fueling the back-to-back titles and named Michael Kofoid, Carson Macedo, Logan Schuchart and Sheldon Haudenschild as key challengers for the season.