Front Row Motorsports has officially confirmed its 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series roster, announcing that Chandler Smith will return to the team’s lineup, a move that provides both continuity and stability for the organization as it prepares for next season. This commitment ensures that the Front Row Motorsports 2026 lineup remains unchanged, with Smith continuing in the No. 38 Ford F-150 alongside teammate Layne Riggs.
Chandler Smith Re-Signs After a Breakout 2025 Season
The team’s decision follows a strong debut year for Smith, who joined Front Row Motorsports at the start of 2025 and rapidly established himself as a key contender in the championship. Despite joining with little time for preparation, Smith achieved notable early results, including two wins within the campaign’s first six races. His performance featured a highlight victory at Bristol, where he secured a win after battling with Kyle Larson. Smith ultimately finished eighth in the final points standings, capping off his first full season with the team and setting the stage for ongoing development.
Reflecting on the achievements of the past year, Smith credited his team’s resilience and unity:
“It’s incredible what this group accomplished in just one season,”
Chandler Smith, Driver.
“When I came to Front Row on such short notice, no one expected us to make a playoff run, but this team never backed down.”
Chandler Smith, Driver.
Although the team faced obstacles during the playoffs, Smith’s overall results contributed to a consensus within the organization that maintaining its momentum into 2026 was the right path forward.
Returning Drivers and Consistent Leadership
By committing to Smith and Riggs as its drivers for next season, Front Row Motorsports has chosen to emphasize continuity. Riggs will continue piloting the No. 34 Ford F-150, while Smith returns to the No. 38. Team officials highlighted the value of consistent driver-team relationships in building competitive strength, with sources noting that continuity was a core influence during the decision process. Additionally, crew chief Jon Leonard, who played an important role in Smith’s first year with the squad, is set to return for his sixth season as a Truck Series crew chief and will again work with Smith throughout 2026.
Leonard commented on the partnership:
“I’m looking forward to working with Chandler again,”
Jon Leonard, Crew Chief.
“We have a mutual trust for each other; we just click. He knows what he needs out of the truck, and he communicates that well.”
Jon Leonard, Crew Chief.
While the primary driver lineups have now been confirmed, Front Row Motorsports indicated that its sponsorship partners for Smith and the No. 38 truck will be revealed ahead of the new season’s start.
Setting Sights on the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series
With core personnel in place, the team’s focus turns to preparations for the 2026 season, which will launch at Daytona International Speedway in February and conclude at Phoenix Raceway. Both Smith and team leaders have expressed determination to improve upon the 2025 campaign, building on lessons learned during their first full season together. The off-season is expected to be filled with further development and testing, with the team aiming to capture additional wins and stronger playoff performances.
Looking ahead, Smith is optimistic about the efforts of those around him:
“The work, the belief, and the effort they put in made all the difference,”
Chandler Smith, Driver.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead and confident in what we can achieve together.”
Chandler Smith, Driver.
As the countdown to the season opener at Daytona continues, Front Row Motorsports remains focused on refining its operations and fostering a winning environment for both Smith and Riggs. Further announcements about sponsors and team developments are expected before racing activities resume next year.
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
