Tony Stewart Racing has unveiled significant alterations to the crew of Donny Schatz’s No. 15 team, preparing for the upcoming 2025 World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series season. The most notable change is Todd Devnich stepping into the role of crew chief. Additionally, Gary Patellaro joins as the new car chief and Ian Lyon takes over as tire specialist. These changes come after Steve Swenson served as Schatz’s crew chief since 2019, guiding him to numerous victories. Meanwhile, Ricky Warner previously held the position from 2005 to 2018, leading Schatz to an impressive record of wins and championships.

The reorganization brings a wealth of experience to the team. Devnich has a long-standing relationship with Schatz, dating back to the late 1990s when he worked on Schatz’s family-owned team. Patellaro, who hails from California, brings extensive experience from his time with several top drivers. Lyon, another Nebraska native, adds expertise in tire management. Together, this new lineup aims to propel Schatz toward continued success in the highly competitive sprint car circuit.

A New Era Under Todd Devnich's Leadership

The appointment of Todd Devnich as the new crew chief marks a pivotal shift for Donny Schatz’s No. 15 team. With a history spanning two decades, Devnich’s deep-rooted connection to Schatz sets a strong foundation for their renewed collaboration. This transition follows six successful years under Steve Swenson’s leadership, which saw 37 wins but also highlighted the need for fresh perspectives. Devnich’s return signifies both continuity and innovation, leveraging past experiences while embracing new challenges.

Devnich’s journey in motorsports began in the late 1990s when he first joined Schatz’s family-owned team. Over the years, he has honed his skills under the mentorship of esteemed figures like Dave Yingst, Steve Swenson, Rick Warner, Kenny Francis, and Keith Rodden. Each of these mentors contributed to shaping Devnich’s comprehensive understanding of the sport. Now, as he steps into the crew chief role, Devnich expresses confidence in tackling the demands of the 2025 World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series. His familiarity with Schatz and the team ensures a smoother transition, promising a robust partnership aimed at achieving peak performance.

Enhancing Team Capabilities with Fresh Talent

In addition to Devnich’s promotion, Tony Stewart Racing has bolstered its ranks with Gary Patellaro and Ian Lyon. Patellaro, joining from Roth Motorsports, assumes the crucial role of car chief. His background working with prominent drivers such as Brent Kaeding, Kasey Kahne, Daryn Pittman, and James McFadden positions him as a valuable asset. Most recently, Patellaro played a key role in McFadden’s top-five finish in the Kubota High Limit Racing standings. This influx of talent underscores the team’s commitment to excellence and strategic planning for the upcoming season.

Ian Lyon, a fellow Nebraska native, takes on the specialized role of tire specialist. With prior experience serving in similar capacities, Lyon brings a nuanced approach to optimizing tire performance—a critical factor in sprint car racing. His expertise will be instrumental in ensuring that Schatz’s vehicle maintains optimal conditions throughout each race. Collectively, these additions signify a strategic overhaul aimed at enhancing overall team performance. By integrating seasoned professionals like Patellaro and Lyon, Tony Stewart Racing demonstrates its dedication to maintaining a competitive edge in the challenging world of sprint car racing.