Garrett Smithley will be back with SS-GreenLight Racing for the 2026 season, piloting a refreshed #0 car as part of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. After a year of steady progress in 2025 and strong showings at Daytona and Martinsville Speedway, the team aims to elevate their efforts with the support of partners Beth and Randy Knighton of BRK Racing, and a focus on building a more competitive program.
Team Strengthens for the Upcoming Season
The collaboration between SS-GreenLight Racing and BRK Racing solidified after a transformative 2025 season, which included notable finishes like Smithley’s eighth place at Daytona and fifteenth at Martinsville Speedway. In preparation for 2026, the team is introducing upgrades, including the use of ECR-leased motors for select races. This move is intended to enhance their on-track performance and competitiveness.
While Smithley will continue as the lead driver in the #0 car, additional drivers for the vehicle will be announced in the coming months. The team’s determination to advance is underscored by the support from O’Reilly Auto Parts, stepping in as the new series partner for the year.
Team Leaders Express Optimism
SS-GreenLight team owner Bobby Dotter shared his outlook for the upcoming year and the importance of continuing the partnerships formed last season.
“We are excited to build on our program from last year and continue to make strides with Garrett. Having Beth and Randy has been a huge benefit to our team and we look forward to another great season, with new series partner O’Reilly Auto Parts.”
– Bobby Dotter, Team Owner
The ongoing collaboration with Beth and Randy Knighton of BRK Racing remains key to the organization’s goals. Their commitment to the team is aimed at achieving further progress in the standings and creating a robust support system for Smithley and his teammates.
Beth Knighton reflected on the team’s recent growth, stating,
“2025 was a big learning curve for us, but we had a great year and we are looking to improve on that. We love working with Bobby and Garrett and we are excited about the program we are building for this coming season.”
– Beth Knighton, BRK Racing Partner
Randy Knighton echoed her sentiments:
“We are thankful to be back with SSGL and Garrett. I’ve been in racing for a long time, so having this opportunity to be a part of the SSGL ownership group has been a lot of fun. We expect to continue to grow and move up in the standings for 2026.”
– Randy Knighton, BRK Racing Partner
Smithley Looks Forward to a Milestone Year
Garrett Smithley, primary driver of the #0 car, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to build on last year’s achievements under the SS-GreenLight Racing banner with BRK Racing’s support.
“I am super happy and thankful to be back with SSGL and BRK racing. Last year was the first time working with Bobby for more than a couple “one off” races and he was great to work with. We definitely want to continue to improve the program, so having Beth and Randy back will be instrumental in that. We have put some things in place to make the 2026 season a success and I’m very thankful for all the support from our sponsors and fans!” – Garrett Smithley, Driver
Looking to the legacy of the #0 car, Smithley added,
“Being back in the #0 car feels like home. This is the 10 year anniversary of my first season in the 0 with JD Motorsports, so this year will be a special one!”
– Garrett Smithley, Driver
What Lies Ahead for SS-GreenLight Racing
With the team’s foundation bolstered by the Knightons’ continued partnership and the expertise of owner Bobby Dotter, SS-GreenLight Racing is positioned to advance in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026. The anticipation around leased ECR motors and returning talent points to a potentially breakthrough season for Smithley and crew, as they strive to reach new heights and celebrate his decade-long journey in the iconic #0 car.
