In the high-octane world of NASCAR, every driver seeks that pivotal moment, that one exceptional race result that can turn the tide of an entire season. For Zane Smith, the dynamic driver of the No. 38 car for Front Row Motorsports, such a moment came calling at the Phoenix Raceway.
Smith’s journey within the NASCAR Cup Series has been nothing short of a thrilling roller coaster ride. He made a promising debut in 2023, launching his Cup career with Front Row Motorsports and delivering a commendable 13th place finish at the iconinc Daytona 500. The following year, Smith switched gears to join Spire Motorsports, only to return to Front Row Motorsports in 2025, driven by a fervent desire to bask in the limelight.
Since his return, Smith has exhibited an unwavering consistency in his performance. His stellar performance at Phoenix, culminating in a top-10 finish, has not only uplifted his confidence but also underscored Front Row Motorsports’ readiness to make their mark this season.
Smith’s 2025 season, however, hadn’t begun on the rosiest of terms. The Daytona 500 saw him complete only 108 out of 201 laps, following a crash during the first stage. Nevertheless, Smith’s performances improved as the season unfolded, demonstrating a consistent pattern that laid the foundation for a breakthrough. He secured an 11th place finish at Atlanta, and despite starting from the rear at COTA due to unapproved adjustments, he managed to bounce back at Phoenix, finishing 9th.
A key factor in Smith’s success at Phoenix was his strategic use of the newly introduced softer option tires by NASCAR. These tires, known for their superior grip and rapid wear, called for strategic game planning throughout the race. Smith commended the softer tires for creating a more dynamic race with increased overtaking opportunities. His confidence was palpable as he remarked, “Phoenix has always been a hit-or-miss race, and [the tire] just created a lot more passing.”
The Front Row Motorsports team, however, is not just about Zane Smith. His teammates Todd Gilliland and Noah Gragson play vital roles in shaping the team’s performance. This youthful trio, each with unique strengths, forms the backbone of the team. Gilliland, the driver of the No. 34 Ford, has emerged as a consistent performer with regular top-20 finishes. His growing leadership role within the team is evident and is expected to guide Front Row Motorsports towards consistent top-ten finishes.
Noah Gragson, behind the wheel of the No. 4 Ford, brings a unique energy and talent to the team. His association with MillerTech underlines the team’s appeal to sponsors. Coupled with his ability to connect with fans and foster a positive team environment, Gragson is a major asset to Front Row Motorsports.
While the team’s expansion to a three-car lineup offers exciting prospects, it also poses challenges in terms of resource allocation and communication. Nonetheless, the promise held by the youthful lineup, each capable of delivering strong performances, bodes well for Front Row Motorsports’ future.
Amidst these exciting developments, Front Row Motorsports also finds itself embroiled in a legal tussle with NASCAR over antitrust issues. The outcome of this legal dispute could potentially impact the team’s future. The question remains – will these legal challenges impede Front Row Motorsports’ journey to the top, or will they successfully navigate these hurdles and continue their upward surge? Only time will tell.