4/21/2026
Willamette Speedway
VETERAN CHAMPION JEREMY SHANK RETURNS TO THE COCKPIT FOR 2026 SEASON AT WILLAMETTE SPEEDWAY
LEBANON, OR —
The roar of the engines at Willamette Speedway will have a familiar resonance this year as veteran driver and former track champion Jeremy Shank officially announces his return to dirt latemodel competition for the 2026 season.
Shank has reached an agreement to pilot the Donofrio’s Skyline Ford Swartz #99, owned by BJ Donofrio. The partnership comes after more than a year of discussions between the two racing mainstays.
A Focused Return to Form:
While Shank’s initial plan centered on a primary campaign for the I-5 Silver Bullet Series, the "limited" schedule at Willamette Speedway is already looking more robust than originally anticipated. Shank is currently in the process of securing his NASCAR license, signaling that a "play-it-by-ear" approach could easily transition into a full-fledged run for the track championship.
"I’ve got to shake off some rust and get used to being back out there with some tough competition, but I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do," said Jeremy Shank. "Willamette Speedway has always been known for the highest level of competition, especially in the late models, where you’ve got the best of the best in our region."
New Chapter, Same Competitive Drive:
After taking a hiatus to focus on his business, Left Coast Motorsports, and raising his family, Shank finds himself in a position to focus entirely on the track. The multi-time Strawberry Cup winner is known for a smooth, patient driving style that has historically challenged the competition at the famed one-third-mile oval.
With the backing of BJ Donofrio’s top-tier equipment and a clear mind, Shank is poised to be a formidable threat for the $7,000 track championship check. Under the NASCAR-sanctioned format, a dominant season could even propel a driver toward regional and national titles, with total earnings potentially reaching $50,000.
Season Opener: The Dirty Diamond 60
The 2026 season kicks off this Saturday night, April 18th, marking the 60th year of racing at Willamette Speedway. The season-opening "Dirty Diamond 60" will feature a grueling 60-lap main event for the Albany Toyota Late Models.
Event Schedule:
Gates Open: 4:00 PM
Qualifying: 4:30 PM
Opening Ceremonies/Racing: 6:00 PM
Tickets:
Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance at www.willamettespeedway.com to guarantee a seat for what is expected to be a sold-out season opener.
About Willamette Speedway
Located in Lebanon, Oregon, Willamette Speedway is a premier one-third-mile dirt oval known for high-speed action and a deep roster of championship-caliber drivers. Celebrating its 60th season in 2026, the track continues to be a cornerstone of Pacific Northwest motorsports.
Article Credit: Cory Penfold
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