Ex-JGR driver Chandler Smith makes his feelings known after signing with “proven” NASCAR team

Chandler Smith announced becoming a full-time driver with Front Row Motorsports for next year. Smith will drive the new second seat in FRM's NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series program following spending a year with Joe Gibbs Racing.

Smith is a 22-year-old professional stock car racing driver who last drove in the Xfinity Series. He left JGR after the 2024 season, finishing a one-year stint with two wins, 17 top-5s, and 22 top-10s.

In a statement, Chandler Smith shared feeling honored to be part of a 'proven' NASCAR team next year.

“I’m excited to join Front Row Motorsports truck program,” Smith said.

He added:

“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. 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.”

Chandler Smith won the 2024 ToyotaCare 250 with Joe Gibbs Racing - Source: Imagn

While Chandler Smith will make his debut with Front Row Motorsports in February next year, it won't be his first Truck Series entry. The young driver competed in the pickup truck-based series with Kyle Busch Motorsports for four years until 2022.

The Georgian also entered one race in the #25 Rackley W.A.R. Chevrolet at Talladega Superspeedway in 2023.

FRM has yet to announce several details for Smith's seat including his Ford F-150's racing number. As it stands, Smith will become teammates with Layne Riggs.

Smith leaving Joe Gibbs Racing followed the signing of Brandon Jones, William Sawalich, and Taylor Gray for 2025.

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“I really was preparing to go work for my dad”: When Chandler Smith reflected on plan outside racing

During the 2024 season, Chandler Smith mentioned working for his father's construction firm in case no teams sign him for 2025. Joe Gibbs Racing didn't extend his contract despite a strong performance with a Round of 8 appearance.

Smith said:

“I really was preparing to go work for my dad and it wasn’t easy.

The 22-year-old driver remained optimistic amid an uncertain future in NASCAR, saying:

But we serve a loving God that has a purpose and a plan and I have always tried to keep in mind that there are more important things than racing. But I am looking forward next season to showcasing that talent that I was blessed with and all glory to Him."

Chandler Smith drove the No. 81 Toyota in the 2024 Xfinity Series season - Source: Imagn

Fast forward to today, Smith signed a full-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series seat with Front Row Motorsports for 2025.

FRM had multiple race victories in the Truck Series, with the latest coming at Bristol Motor Speedway won by Layne Riggs. But perhaps the team's best achievement was winning the 2022 championship with Zane Smith behind the wheel.

Chandler Smith will hold his first race with FRM at the Daytona International Speedway for the Fresh From Florida 250. The 100-lap race will take place on February 14.