World of Outlaws Points Leader Gustin Heads to Smoky Mountain
Ryan Gustin enters Smoky Mountain race as World of Outlaws Late Models points leader, bolstered by new crew chief Cody Mallory and improved team preparation for 2025.
Race driver in dirt track car
Gustin's strong start to 2025 includes a dominant win at the DIRTcar Sunshine Nationals at Volusia Speedway Park, followed by three consecutive top-10 finishes at the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals. These performances have positioned him as the series points leader heading into March.
The addition of veteran crew chief Cody Mallory, who previously worked with Scott Bloomquist, Bobby Pierce, and Rocket1 Racing, has immediately elevated the No. 19R team's performance. Their partnership clicked from the start, with Gustin securing his 11th career World of Outlaws victory in their first race together.
"He's obviously one of the best, if not the best out here I feel like, so to have him in our corner, it's huge for our team," Gustin said of Mallory.
The team's improved preparation compared to last year has also contributed to their success. Unlike 2024's last-minute scramble, they enter this season fully equipped and organized.
Looking ahead to Smoky Mountain Speedway, Gustin brings a strong track record at the recently reconfigured 3/8-mile facility. He won there with the Hunt the Front Super Dirt Series last April and scored a podium finish in the Mountain Moonshine Classic in June.
The Tennessee Tipoff at Smoky Mountain Speedway is scheduled for March 14-15, where Gustin aims to maintain his points lead and continue his early-season momentum.