Zane Smith dodges question about his NASCAR future amid mid-season Spire split

Zane Smith’s last race with Spire Motorsports came to an unfortunate end with a late-race crash, following which, the 25-year-old Californian sent a three-worded response on his plans for 2025. Smith, who was under a loan from Trackhouse Racing all this time, is yet to land a deal for the upcoming season.

There have been speculations about potential teams that could sign Zane Smith. Front Row Motorsports, 23XI Racing, and RFK Racing are looking to expand to three-car teams. Therefore, Smith could end up with any of those three organizations. He could even try out a ride at the Xfinity level or return to driving trucks.

However, the driver himself has not confirmed his plans yet. When asked about the same by Frontstretch’s Bryan Nolen, Smith said,

“I’m not sure.”(0:29)

Nevertheless, Smith promised to be back stronger. Reflecting on his performance at Phoenix, the driver later tweeted,

“Hard hit. Had a Brake rotor explode to finish our season early. Tough year to say the least. Never give up… will be back.”

Smith finished 39th on Sunday after having run only 250 of the 312-lap event. As of today, he sits 30th in the Cup Series standings with 505 points to his name. In 36 starts this year, Smith amassed two top-5s and four top-10s.

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“Ruthless to rookies”- Zane Smith evaluates the level of difficulty in the Cup Series

The Cup Series is arguably the hardest nut to crack among the three tiers of racing in NASCAR. Zane Smith understands that very well. Ahead of Sunday’s race, he spoke to a group of reporters about his performance this year and how close it has been to his expectations.

Smith started the season with a P13 finish at Daytona International Speedway on February 18. Over the next sixteen point-paying races, he wasn’t able to deliver a top-15 finish, let alone a top-10.

However, everything changed at Nashville, where he lodged a season-best runner-up performance. He bagged a top-10 at Michigan and a top-5 at Watkins Glen weeks later.

“I feel like the second half of my season, especially since Nashville, has been everything I kinda hoped for,” Zane Smith reflected. (0:22)

“Cup Series is not easy and I think you see time and time again it's ruthless to rookies and just fortunate we've been able to turn our year around and make the most out of it, especially with the circumstances. Proud of this back half of the season we put together,” he added.

The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season is finally over, with Team Penske driver Joey Logano taking home his third Championship title. Thus begins the offseason. Meanwhile, fans can take a look at the 2025 Cup Series schedule right here.