Chandler Smith Unexpected Departure: In a surprising turn of events, Kaulig Racing announced on Sunday that Xfinity Series rookie Chandler Smith will not be returning for another season with the team. The news puts an end to Smith’s inaugural season with Kaulig, where he showcased his talent behind the wheel of the No. 16 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
At just 21 years old, Smith had been viewed as a promising prospect in the Xfinity Series. Prior to his time with Kaulig Racing, he had made a mark as a part-time driver in the Truck Series for Rackley WAR. Smith was also associated with the Toyota Racing Development program until 2022.
During his tenure with Kaulig, Smith exhibited his potential on the track, securing one victory, three pole awards, and accumulating eight top-five and twelve top-ten finishes throughout the season. Despite these accomplishments, he currently sits in seventh place in the playoff standings, trailing by 54 points from the final transfer spot for the Xfinity title race.
The recent playoff race at Homestead-Miami Speedway posed challenges for Smith, finishing in the 34th position, making the playoffs even more elusive. As the season nears its end, he holds a total of 3059 points.
In a notable development, Chandler Smith is set to transition to Joe Gibbs Racing in the Xfinity Series for the upcoming season. While not officially confirmed, this move marks a return for Smith to the Toyota racing family. Previously, he was part of the Toyota banner while competing with Kyle Busch Motorsports in the 2022 Truck Series season.
Rumors suggest that Smith was obligated to fulfill a contractual buyout clause with Kaulig Racing. Despite originally signing a three-year deal with the team, Smith’s journey with Kaulig Racing concludes after just one season, leaving two years remaining on his initial agreement.
As the NASCAR community eagerly awaits the announcement of Kaulig Racing’s 2024 Xfinity Series driver lineup, the future of Chandler Smith’s promising racing career remains uncertain. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see what unfolds next for this young talent on the track.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Is Chandler Smith Married?
Smith and Kenzie Grams got engaged on New Year’s Day in 2021 and tied the knot on July 17th of the same year. A few months later, on February 4, 2022, they shared the exciting news that they were expecting their first child. Chandler Smith Jr. was born on August 4, 2022, bringing immense joy to the couple. Fast forward to May 12, 2023, and the couple announced that they were expecting their second son. The Smiths’ family is growing, and they couldn’t be happier!
Who is Chandler Smiths father?
Chandler Daly Smith, born on July 13, 1992 in Gainesville, Fla., is the son of Cedric and Nicole Smith. He has two siblings. Cedric, Chandler’s father, played as a fullback in front of Emmitt Smith at the University of Florida and had a successful six-season career in the NFL.
Who replaced Matt DiBenedetto?
Rackley W.A.R. has recently revealed that Chandler Smith will be taking over for Matt DiBenedetto at Talladega in 2023. The announcement was made in Daytona Beach, Florida.
