Chandler Smith, reflecting on his time away from the series, has shared his thoughts on notable changes since his return, highlighting how the Chandler Smith NASCAR Truck Series changes have shaped racing dynamics. After competing in the Xfinity Series for two years, Smith is now racing full-time in the Truck Series again in 2025 with Front Row Motorsports, posting two wins and 13 top-10 finishes so far.
Noticeable Adjustments on Track Since 2022
Smith pointed out several differences he has seen in the Truck Series since his last full-time season in 2022. Small details, such as the size of truck windows, have shifted, but the most significant transformations are in the competitive landscape. He observed that the No. 11 truck driven by Corey Heim operates on another level most weekends, setting a high benchmark for other drivers. The performance gap among most of the field has also noticeably narrowed, leading to tighter racing where even minor adjustments can influence race outcomes.
He remarked on the increased grip he now feels in the trucks, a detail that surprised him on returning to familiar racetracks. The vehicles, according to Smith, seem more capable than those he drove a few years prior, making the race environment more challenging and fast-paced.
We’re all pretty much right within a hand’s width of each other. We’re right there on top of each other. It wasn’t like that a few years ago. I feel like the trucks have way more grip than I remember them having as well. I find myself going to some of these racetracks and being surprised about like, ‘Wow, this thing’s got a lot of grip. I don’t remember this.’
—Chandler Smith, NASCAR driver
Cultural Shifts Among Competitors and Racing Ethic
Another aspect Smith has noticed is a marked improvement in the overall race discipline and professionalism among his peers. During his previous stint, on-track incidents and lack of discipline were more common, but he now observes a cleaner, more respectful approach throughout the series. Smith linked this evolution to a natural progression over time, but particularly expressed pride in how drivers conduct themselves currently.
I remember when I left the Truck Series it was not good. People were right hooking each other, doing very stupid things that shouldn’t be going on and made our series look like crap. I’m proud to say that this year at the start of the season it was a little bit bumpy with a few instances with some rookies, but a lot of it has cleaned up and it’s pretty tamed down.
—Chandler Smith, NASCAR driver
Earlier in his career, Smith chose to leave the Truck Series for the Xfinity Series with Kaulig Racing, seeking a more respectful competitive environment. Now, his return has coincided with an improved culture in the Truck Series, something he finds reassuring and motivating as competition tightens.
Heightened Focus on Race Details
Given the emergence of tighter racing, Smith emphasized the importance of executing every detail, such as pit road strategies and restart positions, to gain advantages over rivals. With the smallest mistakes potentially making the difference between a top-10 and a lower finish, drivers are compelled to focus on every aspect of each race weekend.
Currently, Smith ranks third in the playoff standings with 16 playoff points, trailing Corey Heim and Layne Riggs. Having previously won the 2021 Craftsman Truck Series Rookie of the Year, he now aims to prove the impact of his growth and capitalize on the series’ transformation since his last full season. As the playoffs progress, fans and competitors alike are watching closely to see if Smith’s renewed perspective and the changed racing environment propel him toward the championship.
