JR Motorsports announces 2026 return for talented young racer Sammy Smith, confirming he will continue driving for the NASCAR Xfinity Series team after a successful run and strong performance in key races. The official announcement comes as Smith prepares for another Playoff season, gearing up for an exciting chapter with the team and major sponsors at his side.
Smith Set for Another Season with JR Motorsports
On Monday, JR Motorsports revealed that Sammy Smith is slated to remain with their Xfinity Series team through the 2026 season. This decision marks Smith’s third year piloting a JR Motorsports entry, signaling the team‘s commitment to building on recent successes. Pilot, TMC Transportation, and Allstate Peterbilt Group have also confirmed they will continue as primary sponsors of the No. 8 Chevrolet, providing vital support and stability for the upcoming season.
A Look at Smith’s Career and Achievements
At just 21 years old, Smith has accumulated three victories in his 101 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts. His impressive win list includes triumphs at Phoenix Raceway, Talladega Superspeedway, and Rockingham Speedway. Smith previously enjoyed notable success in the ARCA Menards Series East, where as a native of Johnston, Iowa, he clinched consecutive championships in 2021 and 2022 while driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. In those two years, he notched eight wins in just 15 starters.
After transitioning to full-time Xfinity Series competition in 2023, Smith quickly showcased his talent by winning at Richmond Raceway during his fourth start, making a remarkable impact as a rookie. Finishing sixth in the championship standings that season, Smith made a major career move by joining JR Motorsports in 2024, stepping into the No. 8 Chevrolet—a number long associated with team owner and NASCAR Hall of Famer, Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Team Leaders and Smith Share Enthusiasm for the Future
The JR Motorsports organization has expressed clear excitement about Smith’s continued involvement with the team and their shared ambitions:
“We are thrilled to have Sammy (Smith), Pilot, TMC and Allstate Peterbilt Group back for 2026,”
said JRM CEO Kelley Earnhardt Miller.
“It’s been a pleasure getting to know and work with Sammy these past two seasons and we’re looking forward to seeing what the future will hold next year after our run for a championship with the No. 8 team in 2025.”
—Kelley Earnhardt Miller, CEO
Smith echoed this positive outlook as he builds momentum for the upcoming playoffs:
“I am looking forward to continuing to build on what we’ve accomplished together here at JRM,”
said Smith.
“I am thankful for the continued support from Pilot, TMC and Allstate Peterbilt Group as we go into these playoffs and into next season as a team.”
—Sammy Smith, Driver
Next Steps for Smith and JR Motorsports
Smith currently holds the No. 6 seed on the 12-driver Playoff Grid as he enters the Food City 300 at Bristol Motor Speedway, aiming to carry his recent progress forward with the support of the returning sponsors. His focus remains sharp on delivering results in the championship run, while the team’s multi-year commitment highlights their faith in his abilities.
The ongoing partnership between Smith and JR Motorsports is expected to have a positive impact on the team’s performance as they look ahead to the 2025 and 2026 NASCAR Xfinity Series seasons. The backing of Pilot, TMC Transportation, and Allstate Peterbilt Group provides both continuity and confidence, ensuring Smith remains a central figure in JR Motorsports’ pursuit of championship glory.
