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.