KNOXVILLE, IOWA - JULY 08: Donny Schatz, driver of the #17 Little Giant Ford Ford, looks on from the garage during practice for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Corn Belt 150 presented by Premier Chevy Dealers at Knoxville Raceway on July 08, 2021 in Knoxville, Iowa. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images) | Getty Images
KNOXVILLE, IOWA - JULY 08: Donny Schatz, driver of the #17 Little Giant Ford Ford, looks on from the garage during practice for the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Corn Belt 150 presented by Premier Chevy Dealers at Knoxville Raceway on July 08, 2021 in Knoxville, Iowa. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Donny Schatz says Truck debut at Knoxville was right, not planning other events

Since 1997, Donny Schatz has committed his entire life to the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series.

The Fargo, ND driver has been rewarded with one of the most iconic careers in the history of Sprint Car racing – 10 World of Outlaws championships, 300 Series wins, 10 Knoxville Nationals titles, six National Open wins and five Kings Royal crowns.

However, he’ll tackle a new challenge – his NASCAR Truck Series debut at Knoxville Raceway.

“My priority has and always will be with the World of Outlaws,” Schatz noted. “I’m not looking for a career change or looking to do this on the regular. If it wasn’t on dirt, if it wasn’t at Knoxville, if it wasn’t on this day, I can tell you this wouldn’t be happening. The stars just happened to line up.”

“I take a lot of pride representing the Sprint Car community this weekend,” Schatz admitted. “Knoxville is one of my favorite places. I’ve had lots of great runs there. I wouldn’t be considering this if it was Richmond or something completely out of my element. This is a place that I absolutely love, and it’s a perfect fit. That’s why we’re lined up with a great team like David Gilliland Racing.”

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