Zane Smith Revives No. 71: In a noteworthy development for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, Zane Smith is slated to take the helm of the No. 71 Chevrolet—an emblematic number absent from the Cup Series since 2011.
The 2022 NASCAR Truck Series champion, Zane Smith, inked a multi-year deal with the Trackhouse Racing Team before the culmination of the 2023 Cup Series season. However, as the Justin Marks and Pitbull-owned team did not have available seats for the 2024 season, Smith found himself on loan to Spire Motorsports.
To accommodate Smith, Spire Motorsports secured a third charter from Live Fast Motorsports, which opted out of full-time competition for the upcoming 2024 season. This additional charter allows Spire Motorsports to field an entry for Smith alongside their existing drivers—Corey LaJoie and rookie Carson Hocevar.
LaJoie is set for a fourth season in the No. 7 Chevrolet, while Hocevar steps in for Ty Dillon behind the wheel of the No. 77 Chevrolet. Until recently, the car number for Zane SmithÂ’s entry had remained unconfirmed.
Confirmation has now emerged that Smith’s car for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season under Spire Motorsports will sport the iconic No. 71—a number absent from Cup Series races since the 2011 season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway, where Mike Bliss steered the No. 71 Ford for TRG Motorsports. An astonishing 432 races have ensued since its last appearance.
The almost break in the streak occurred in 2019, when Tommy Baldwin Racing fielded the No. 71 Chevrolet for Ryan Truex at Daytona International Speedway. However, being outside the 36 chartered entries, Truex had to secure a spot either by speed in qualifying for the Daytona 500 or via the Duel qualifying races. Unfortunately, he fell short in both attempts, leading to the absence of the No. 71 from the garage since then.
Now, as the No. 71 Chevrolet secures its place as a chartered entry through the substantial $40 million transaction between Spire Motorsports and Live Fast Motorsports, the car is guaranteed participation in all 36 points races on the 2024 Cup Series schedule.
Delving into the history of car No. 71, Bobby Isaac emerges as its most triumphant driver, claiming 35 wins in 199 starts. Other notable race winners under this number include Dave Marcis (five wins in 589 starts), Buddy Baker (three wins in 37 starts), and Fireball Roberts (one win in one start).
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Our Reader’s Queries
Who is Zane Smith racing for in 2024?
Zane Smith has inked a long-term deal with Trackhouse Racing, but will be racing full-time with Spire Motorsports in the NASCAR Cup Series starting in 2024. This move was made possible by Spire Motorsports’ acquisition of a charter from Live Fast Motorsports, while Trackhouse Racing has given Smith the opportunity to pilot their third entry.
Who will drive for Spire Motorsports in 2024?
Spire Motorsports is set to dominate the NASCAR Cup Series in 2024 with their impressive lineup of Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s. The Nos. 7, 71, and 77 cars will be driven by Corey LaJoie, Zane Smith, and Carson Hocevar, respectively. With such a talented team behind the wheel, Spire Motorsports is sure to make a big impact on the racing world. Get ready to witness some thrilling action on the track!
How many wins does Zane Smith have?
Zane Smith, a skilled racing driver, has achieved remarkable success in his career. He has won numerous races, secured top ten finishes, and earned pole positions. With a total of 95 wins, 53 poles, and consistent top ten finishes, Zane Smith has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with on the track. His impressive track record speaks for itself, and he continues to be a formidable competitor in the racing world.