Chandler Smith hints at 2025 NASCAR plans after parting ways with Joe Gibbs Racing
The future is still murky for Chandler Smith when it comes to NASCAR, but could that be changing soon? The driver had a message today for fans. At the end of the Xfinity Series season, Smith revealed he had no seat secured for 2025.
Nothing in Cup, Xfinity, or the Truck Series for Chandler Smith. At least, how it sits at this moment. There aren’t many great rides out there, but maybe the three-time winner in the Xfinity Series can find a last-minute job.
On social media today, Smith thanked his team and supporters. He says he is closing this chapter and is excited to see what is waiting for him in the future. Doesn’t sound concrete, but perhaps a little more progress toward a 2025 ride?
“2024 was one of the best years I’ve had in racing in a very, very long time. Being able to work with everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing and being back with the Toyota family was an absolute pleasure,” Smith wrote on social media. “As we close the chapter on 2024 and I reflect on how the season went, it’s very hard to hang my head over it. Yes, we didn’t make the championship 4, yes we didn’t win as many races as I would have liked, but it was one of the best seasons yet. I will be forever grateful for my entire 81 group.
“I made some amazing friendships over the year and some lifelong friends as well. To my fans, thank you for always sticking by me, through the thick and the thin. Most importantly, I want to thank my Wife and my family. The sacrifices that you make never go unseen. You’re always there for me, no matter how great the day is or how crappy it was. As this chapter closes, I’m excited to see what God has in store for myself and my family for 2025 and beyond.”
We know that Chandler Smith has some funding. How much remains to be seen. I think he could do a lot for a smaller organization.
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Chandler Smith had fantastic 2024 season
During the 2024 season, Chandler Smith won two races. He began the season with seven straight top-10 finishes. He then posted 10 top-5 finishes in the final twelve races and only one finish in that time outside of the top-10. That includes three pole awards as well.
Despite not making the Championship 4, you could argue that Smith had the best playoffs of almost any driver in NASCAR. His average finish was 5.42 during the seven playoff races. However, without a win, he couldn’t make the transfer on points.
The kid has been a success in the Truck Series and Xfinity Series. It is very confusing why he isn’t locked into a ride. Daniel Hemric just landed a ride with Bill-McAnally in the Truck Series. That is a great fit, I think. Maybe there is one or two rides out there like that for Smith?
Six poles, three wins, 20 top-10s in 40 starts in the Xfinity Series. That guy isn’t going to go racing next year in NASCAR? If so, the system is broken.