Chandler Smith is preparing to make his highly anticipated debut in the Cup Series at the Daytona 500, partnering with Front Row Motorsports for this milestone event. Competing behind the wheel of the No. 36 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, Smith is eager to demonstrate the potential of Front Row Motorsports during one of the most prestigious races of the season, with an eye on making a strong statement in his first attempt at winning the Daytona 500.
Smith’s recent achievements include two wins in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series during a standout initial year with Front Row Motorsports. Notably, he achieved a personal best finish of sixth at Daytona International Speedway in the Truck Series, underscoring his capability to perform at superspeedways. Sharing his anticipation for the upcoming challenge, Smith remarked,
“I’m really excited to take a shot at the Daytona 500 with the FRM Cup Series program. This organization is known for its speed at superspeedways, and I am going to give it my best shot to win the Harley J. Earl Trophy or help my teammates if I am in the position to do so in the end. I greatly appreciate the opportunity and will do my part to get FRM off to a great start to the 2026 Cup season, while I pursue my primary goal this year in winning the 2026 Truck Series Championship.”
Strong Partners Join the Daytona Campaign
For this high-profile race, Smith will enjoy considerable support from key sponsors who will help drive his Daytona ambitions. Quick Tie Products, Inc. is coming on board as the primary partner for the No. 36 Ford. Renowned for their proprietary QuickTie™ System, which is designed for high wind and seismic construction, Quick Tie also manufactures a wide range of framing hardware, including u-hangers, hurricane clips, various connectors, and structural wood screws.
Additionally, Matheus Lumber is lending its backing for the event. A family-run business since 1932, Matheus Lumber Inc. stands out as a leading supplier of forest products and building materials, servicing a broad array of customers across the nation. The company is pivotal in supporting construction projects, from multifamily and commercial developments to large-scale industrial operations, providing everything from framing lumber and engineered wood products to specialized supplies for bridge construction, marina assembly, and more.
Smith Looks Forward to Making an Impact at Daytona
As he prepares for this critical race, Smith emphasized the significance of the opportunity and the team’s commitment, stating,
“Any time you get a chance to race your way into the Daytona 500, it’s something you don’t take for granted. This No. 36 QuickTie Ford team has been working hard, and we’re ready to make the most of the opportunity.”
Front Row Motorsports has a history of excelling at superspeedway tracks, and with new partners like Quick Tie Products, Inc. and Matheus Lumber joining forces for the event, expectations are high. Smith’s participation adds fresh energy to the field, and his focus on both the Daytona 500 and his ongoing Truck Series Championship campaign signals a year filled with ambition and determination.
As race day approaches, all eyes will be on Chandler Smith, his No. 36 team, and the extended partnerships supporting his journey. Whether he secures a win or provides valuable support to his Front Row Motorsports teammates, Smith’s efforts at the Daytona 500 could mark a pivotal start to his Cup Series trajectory and further elevate the organization’s reputation on racing’s biggest stage.
