What Is 2020 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series

Overview

The 2020 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series was a premier dirt late model racing circuit in the United States, sanctioned by Lucas Oil and organized in partnership with the Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame. The season spanned from early February to late October, showcasing high-powered V8-engine race cars on clay ovals across the country.

This year's series was particularly notable for its resilience amid the challenges posed by the global pandemic, which led to a revised schedule and rescheduled events. Despite disruptions, the tour completed a full 54-race slate, drawing top-tier drivers and large crowds where permitted.

• 54 total races were held across 14 states, making it one of the most extensive dirt racing schedules in recent years.
• Tim McCreadie clinched the 2020 championship after earning 12 feature victories and consistent top-five finishes.
• The season opened on February 7, 2020, at Golden Isles Speedway in Georgia, with Jonathan Davenport taking the win.
• Josh Richards finished second in the points, just 98 points behind McCreadie, after a strong late-season push.
• The series visited 37 unique dirt tracks, including Eldora Speedway, Lucas Oil Speedway, and Florence Speedway.

How It Works

The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series operates as a points-based touring series where drivers accumulate points at each event to determine the season champion. Races follow a structured format including time trials, heat races, and a main event, with points awarded based on finishing position and performance.

• Points System: Drivers earn points based on finishing position in heats and features. The winner of a feature receives 100 points, with decreasing points down to 20th place.
• Chassis Rules: Cars must comply with 2020 LoLMDS technical regulations, including a 430 cubic inch engine and strict weight and dimension limits.
• Race Format: Events typically include group qualifying, three or four 20-lap heat races, and a 50-lap main event for top finishers.
• Driver Eligibility: Competitors must hold a valid 2020 LoLMDS license and meet safety and insurance requirements set by the series.
• Championship Tiebreaker: In the event of a points tie, the driver with more feature wins is awarded the title.
• Prize Money: The series awarded over $6.2 million in prize funds during the 2020 season, with $10,000 to win most features.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares the 2020 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series with two other major dirt racing series in terms of structure, prize money, and race count.

The data shows that the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series ranked among the most competitive and well-funded dirt racing tours in 2020. While slightly behind the World of Outlaws in total races and purse, it offered broader regional coverage and higher average payouts per event than most regional circuits.

Why It Matters

The 2020 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series played a crucial role in sustaining professional dirt racing during a year of uncertainty, maintaining fan engagement and driver opportunities. Its success helped solidify the sport’s commercial viability and expanded national interest in grassroots motorsports.

• The series provided over 300 driver entries across the season, offering exposure and income for regional and national racers.
• Television coverage on DIRTVision and CBS Sports Network increased viewership by 18% compared to 2019.
• Its pandemic-adjusted schedule became a model for other motorsports series facing similar disruptions.
• The championship race remained competitive until the final event at I-77 Speedway, boosting fan interest.
• Lucas Oil's sponsorship ensured consistent prize funds, even when attendance was limited.
• The series helped promote safety innovations, including updated roll cage standards and concussion protocols.

By completing a full season under challenging conditions, the 2020 Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series reinforced its status as a cornerstone of American dirt track racing.