Live Feed: Chandler Smith’s Return to the Craftsman Truck Series – A Comeback Story
In a season where fortunes swung wildly for some NASCAR stars, Chandler Smith stood out as a driver whose journey took unexpected turns. Despite a stellar 2024 in the Xfinity Series with Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR)—earning 2 wins, 22 top-tens, and 17 top-fives—Smith found himself without a seat for 2025. However, thanks to Front Row Motorsports, the 22-year-old phenom is back in the game and ready to make waves in the Craftsman Truck Series.
Let’s take a closer look at Smith’s story, his rise in NASCAR, and what lies ahead.
Who is Chandler Smith?
Born in 2001 in Talking Rock, Georgia, Chandler Smith grew up surrounded by support from his family. His father’s construction company, Smith General Contracting, played a key role in sponsoring his early racing endeavors. This foundation helped Smith rise through the ranks of NASCAR, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Smith made his Craftsman Truck Series debut in 2021, where he quickly delivered results. He clinched his first Truck Series win at the Round of 10 elimination race in Bristol and added another victory at Phoenix to close the year. But even before joining NASCAR’s national levels, Smith had already made his mark in the ARCA Menards Series, where his talent truly shone.
From ARCA to JGR: Chandler Smith’s Rapid Rise
Climbing the NASCAR ladder is no easy feat, but Chandler Smith made it look effortless. Competing in the ARCA Menards Series, he claimed 10 wins, 23 top-fives, and 30 top-tens, with his first victory coming in just his fifth race at Madison International Speedway in 2018. At just 15 years old, Smith caught the attention of NASCAR legend Kyle Busch, who brought him into the fold at Kyle Busch Motorsports for Trucks and Super Late Models.
While driving for Kyle Busch Motorsports, Smith secured five Truck Series wins and was the only driver to complete every lap of the 2022 season, showcasing unmatched consistency. In 2023, Smith transitioned to Joe Gibbs Racing for a full-time Xfinity Series campaign, earning his first Xfinity win at Richmond Raceway. To date, his stock car racing resume boasts three Xfinity wins and five Truck wins.
Why is Chandler Smith Returning to the Truck Series?
After a strong 2024 season with JGR, Smith’s career was derailed by sponsorship challenges. Initially supported by Quick Tie, Toyota, and other partners, his funding fell short for the 2025 season. At one point, whispers emerged that Smith might leave racing altogether to join his father’s construction business.
However, Front Row Motorsports stepped in to offer Smith a lifeline. The championship-winning team signed him for a full-time campaign in the 2025 Craftsman Truck Series, marking a critical turning point in his career. Smith expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m excited to join the Front Row Motorsports truck program. They are a top contender in the Truck Series and have proven so with championships and wins. I like what they are building here and am honored to have the opportunity to add to it.”
What Awaits Chandler Smith in 2025?
The 2025 season offers Smith a chance to rebuild his career and showcase his talent once again. Driving for Front Row Motorsports, Smith will pilot a second truck alongside teammate Layne Riggs, the 2024 NCTS Rookie of the Year. Although the team has not yet announced the truck number or sponsorship details, Smith’s debut is set for the Fresh from Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway.
Reflecting on the upcoming season, Smith said, “We are getting a bit of a late start, but I am excited about the caliber of talent we are talking to in being a part of this program for 2025.”
With five career Truck Series wins under his belt and the support of one of the most successful teams in the series, Smith is well-positioned for success.
A Comeback in the Making
Chandler Smith’s journey has been one of perseverance, talent, and resilience. From early triumphs in ARCA to excelling in the Xfinity Series and now a promising return to the Truck Series, Smith’s story is far from over.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans eagerly await to see if this young speedster can reclaim his place among NASCAR’s elite. What do you think? Will Chandler Smith rise to the challenge and shine once again? Let us know in the comments below!
