NASCAR

NASCAR Driver Faces Tough Exit After Front Row Motorsports Decision

David Thorne
David Thorne
NewsHue Author
Chandler Smith prepares his No. 38 Ford F-150 for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway.

Front Row Motorsports has officially announced that driver Chandler Smith will depart the team at the conclusion of the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season. This decision ends a two-year tenure that began at the start of the 2025 season. During this window, Smith steered the No. 38 Ford F-150 to four race victories, establishing himself as a regular contender across various track types including road courses and short tracks.

While the separation marks a significant shift for the organization, the team confirmed that the professional relationship remains intact for the remainder of the 2026 schedule. Smith will continue to pilot the No. 38 entry through the final races of the season as the team pursues championship goals. The organization noted that its internal focus stays on maintaining performance levels and supporting the current engineering efforts in Mooresville.

The search for a successor in the No. 38 truck for the 2027 season is currently underway, though the team has not yet disclosed any potential replacements. Smith’s recent track record makes him a notable addition to the list of available talent for teams evaluating their driver lineups for the upcoming year. As the playoffs approach, the immediate priority for both parties involves securing additional wins to close out their partnership.

Front Row Motorsports expressed gratitude for Smith's role in strengthening their truck program. The team stated that further announcements regarding their 2027 lineup will follow as final decisions are reached. Both the driver and the organization aim to finish the current campaign with consistent results before shifting to their respective future plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chandler Smith leaving Front Row Motorsports?+
Yes, Chandler Smith will not return to Front Row Motorsports for the 2027 season.
Will Chandler Smith drive for the rest of the 2026 season?+
Yes, Smith will continue to drive the No. 38 truck for the remainder of the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series schedule.
How many wins did Chandler Smith earn with Front Row Motorsports?+
Chandler Smith earned four victories during his tenure with the team.
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David Thorne
David Thorne
David Thorne covers sports and health. With over a decade of experience, he brings deep insights into athletic performance and wellness.