Front Row Motorsports has officially confirmed that Chandler Smith will return as the full-time driver of the No. 38 Ford in the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, causing excitement and debate among racing fans. The announcement about the Front Row Motorsports driver announcement was shared on X, prompting a strong response from the motorsports community.
Chandler Smith Secures Another Season with Front Row Motorsports
Chandler Smith, who began his NASCAR Truck Series journey with Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2019, is set for his second year with Front Row Motorsports after completing a full 2025 season. At 23 years old, Smith’s record includes seven career Truck Series wins, with two victories achieved during the 2025 season, solidifying his status as one of the series’ promising drivers. The team publicly celebrated his return:
“Chan the man is back again. We’re excited to announce that Chandler Smith will return to drive the No. 38 in the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026!”
Smith’s recent performance was highlighted by wins at Bristol Motor Speedway and North Wilkesboro Speedway. His Bristol victory was particularly notable, as he led the most laps and claimed the Triple Truck Challenge bonus. At North Wilkesboro Speedway, Smith dramatically took the lead on the final lap in a chaotic finish.
The 2025 season concluded with Smith achieving five top-five and sixteen top-ten finishes, placing him eighth overall in the Truck Series standings. Next year, Jon Leonard joins as the crew chief for the No. 38 truck, with details about team sponsorships to be announced later. Smith’s sponsorship this year included TitleMax, QuickTie, Long John Silver’s, Rural King, Wheelers, and The Pete Store.
Fans React to Smith’s Return and Sponsorship Details
The Front Row Motorsports driver announcement quickly drew diverse reactions from fans. Some fans were overjoyed at the news, while others commented on Smith reportedly bringing $1.5 million to secure his seat with the team.
“Another $1.5M check cleared,” a fan wrote.
“He’s got the talent. Just has to control it,” a fan reacted.
“So happy he’s back,” another replied.
“Awesome!!! Go win a championship Chandler!” yet another wrote.
Smith’s comeback has energized a significant segment of the fan base, while sparking continued conversation about the influence of funding and sponsorship in professional racing.
Smith and Team Look Ahead to Next Season
As he heads into 2026, Chandler Smith expressed enthusiasm about building on his first year with the team. He addressed the announcement on social media, stating:
“Looking forward to year 2 with this group!👊🏻” — Chandler Smith, Driver
Smith joined Front Row Motorsports after spending a full season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Joe Gibbs Racing, where he accrued three series wins—beginning at Richmond Raceway and followed by additional victories at Phoenix and a second Win at Richmond in 2024.
Looking to 2026, Front Row Motorsports will continue with a two-car lineup. Layne Riggs, who has signed a multi-year deal, will return to drive the No. 34 Ford after notching wins. His 2025 campaign included three victories at Pocono, Indianapolis Raceway Park, and Bristol, and he advanced deep into the playoff rounds. The trajectory for both Smith and Riggs suggests Front Row Motorsports aims to be a powerful presence in the upcoming Truck Series season.
This series of moves and confirmations signals Front Row’s intention to remain highly competitive and committed to nurturing emerging talent, with Chandler Smith and Layne Riggs expected to help define the team’s success in the 2026 season. Fans and industry insiders alike will closely watch how the updated team dynamics and leadership, including new crew chief Jon Leonard, impact the chase for the Truck Series championship.
Chan the man is back again.
We’re excited to announce that Chandler Smith will return to drive the No. 38 in the Craftsman Truck Series in 2026! pic.twitter.com/OmfUQctRkE
— Front Row Motorsports (@Team_FRM) December 16, 2025
He’s got the talent. Just has to control it
— Don Vito (@Vito_Sabbatino) December 16, 2025
So happy he's back @CSmith_Racing 😄
— Elizabeth Carolyn NS no 1 fan (@bnascarg) December 16, 2025
Awesome!!! Go win a championship Chandler!
— Alex Rose (@razorquake) December 16, 2025
