One of the top prospects in the developmental NASCAR ranks is headed to the sanctioning body’s AAA tour.
Sammy Smith, who turned 18 earlier this month, will be behind the wheel of the No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota entry for eight NASCAR Xfinity Series events through the season.
The Johnston, Iowa native is regarded well in the sport, and the move to start him in eight races this season shows the team’s confidence.
“Sammy has impressed at every level of his racing career,” Steve DeSouza, Executive Vice President/Xfinity Series for Joe Gibbs Racing, said in a release. “We believe Sammy will continue to excel and look forward to supporting him as he expands his 2022 schedule to include eight races in the Xfinity Series with the Joe Gibbs Racing No.18 team led by crew chief Jason Ratcliff.”
Smith is the defending ARCA Menards East Series champion and leads the points in the series at the moment. He’s yet to run a NASCAR Truck Series race, however.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to run the No. 18 Toyota GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing,” Smith said. “Making the jump to this level is huge for me and my career, and I’m thankful for all of my partners and supporters that have helped me get here.”
Smith will make his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut July 2 at Road America with primary support from Allstate Peterbilt Group. Pilot Flying J, TMC, Allstate Peterbilt Group, Renda Group, and Sinclair Tractor were listed as other sponsors behind Smith for the eight-race run.
Smith’s eight race slate has been announced and can be seen below:
July 2 – Road America
July 23 – Pocono
August 6 – Michigan
August 20 – Watkins Glen
September 10 – Kansas
September 16 – Bristol
October 29 – Martinsville
November 5 – Phoenix
