Sunday, December 28, 2025

Giovanni Scelzi

Giovanni Scelzi (born November 28, 2001) is an American racing driver who entered the ARCA Menards Series West in 2020 with Bill McAnally Racing. He is notable for being the youngest winner in World of Outlaws history and for winning his first feature at Knoxville Raceway. Giovanni is the son of famed drag racer Gary Scelzi and has garnered attention for his rapid ascent in the racing world. As of 2023, he has joined the World of Outlaws, continuing to showcase his skills on the track.
Full Name:
Giovanni Scelzi
Birthday:
28 November 2001
Birthplace:
Fresno, California, USA
Profession:
Race Car Driver
Gender:
Male
Parents:
Gary Scelzi (Father)
Education:
Clovis Online High School (High School)
Notable Achievements:
ARCA Menards Series West (Race Win Year 2020), Youngest winner in World of Outlaws history (Record 2017) Youngest driver to win a feature at Knoxville Raceway (Record 2019)
Car Number:
16
Crew Chief:
John Camilleri

Giovanni Scelzi Bio

Early Life and Background

Giovanni Scelzi was born on November 28, 2001, in Fresno, California, USA. He is the son of Gary Scelzi, a well-known drag racer, which likely influenced his early interest in motorsports. Growing up in a racing family, Giovanni was exposed to the sport from a young age, which helped shape his career path. He attended Clovis Online High School, where he engaged in a blended learning model that allowed him to balance his education with his racing commitments.

Path to NASCAR

Giovanni began his racing career in micro-sprints, competing at local tracks such as Plaza Park Raceway and Lemoore Speedway. At just nine years old, he achieved an impressive 24 wins in a single season. By the age of sixteen, he moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, to pursue more competitive opportunities in sprint car racing. His early achievements included becoming the youngest winner in World of Outlaws history in 2017 and winning a feature at Knoxville Raceway in 2019.

Giovanni Scelzi Career

Early Career (2020)

Scelzi’s professional career took off in 2020 when he joined the ARCA Menards Series West with Bill McAnally Racing, driving the No. 16 Toyota. His debut season was marked by a notable win, making him the youngest winner in the series’ history. He also demonstrated his versatility by competing in various sprint car events, including a successful stint at the Chili Bowl.

ARCA Menards Series West Breakthrough (2020)

In his inaugural season, Giovanni quickly made a name for himself in the ARCA Menards Series West. He secured his first victory after executing a bump-and-run maneuver on Taylor Gray, showcasing his racing acumen. Scelzi finished the season strong, placing fifth in the championship standings and solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the sport.

Current Team Era (2023–Present)

As of 2023, Scelzi has transitioned to the World of Outlaws, where he is competing full-time and aiming for Rookie of the Year honors. His move to this prestigious series reflects his growth as a driver and his desire to take on new challenges. Scelzi’s performance has been closely watched as he continues to build on his early successes and gain valuable experience in the competitive landscape of dirt racing.

Race Car Driver Style and Strengths

Giovanni Scelzi is known for his aggressive driving style and strategic approach on the track. His ability to adapt to different racing conditions and his keen understanding of racecraft have contributed to his rapid ascent in the motorsports world. His background in sprint car racing has equipped him with skills that translate well to various forms of racing.

Notable Achievements and Milestones

Among his notable achievements, Scelzi holds the record for being the youngest winner in World of Outlaws history and has made significant strides in the ARCA Menards Series West. His victory at Knoxville Raceway and his ARCA win are key milestones that highlight his talent and potential in the sport.

Giovanni Scelzi Career Wins

Giovanni Scelzi has made a significant impact in his short career, with notable wins across various series. His achievements include one win in the ARCA Menards Series West and multiple victories in sprint car competitions.

Current ARCA Menards Series West Highlights

In the ARCA Menards Series West, Scelzi achieved one victory, marking a significant milestone in his career. His first win came after a dramatic race where he showcased his skill and determination. As he continues to compete, his performance remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike.

Previous World of Outlaws Achievements

In the World of Outlaws, Scelzi is pursuing Rookie of the Year honors, and his early performances have demonstrated his potential to compete at a high level. His transition to this series is seen as a critical step in his career as he seeks to establish himself among the top drivers in the sport.

Giovanni Scelzi Family

Family Background and NASCAR Lineage

Giovanni Scelzi comes from a family deeply rooted in motorsports. His father, Gary Scelzi, is a renowned drag racer, and Giovanni’s brother, Dominic Scelzi, is also involved in sprint car racing. This familial connection to racing has provided Giovanni with a strong foundation and support system as he navigates his own racing career.

Personal Life

Details about Giovanni’s personal life are limited, but he is known to have a close relationship with his family, who have been instrumental in his racing journey. His commitment to balancing education with his racing aspirations reflects a strong work ethic and dedication to his craft.

2025 Season Performance

As of the 2025 season, Giovanni Scelzi is competing full-time in the World of Outlaws, where he is focused on achieving Rookie of the Year honors. His performances have been marked by consistent improvement and competitiveness. Key results from the season indicate his growing prowess on the track, and he remains a driver to watch as he continues to develop his skills and gain valuable experience in this elite series.