NASCAR: 5 possible landing spots for Zane Smith in 2024
By Asher Fair
Zane Smith has emerged as arguably the top free agent for the 2024 NASCAR season. Where will he end up competing next year?
Following several big-name driver signings, the free agent market for the 2024 NASCAR season is slowly but surely decreasing in size. But one name stands out as arguably the top driver remaining without a ride next year, and that is Zane Smith.
Zane Smith, who signed a contract last summer to remain with Front Row Motorsports through 2026, was granted approval to seek other rides after the Bob Jenkins-owned team confirmed that they would be sticking with Michael McDowell and Todd Gilliland for their Cup Series operation next year.
Smith is said to have contacted Trackhouse Racing Team, but they are already at capacity, presumably even if they do add a third full-time entry after signing Shane van Gisbergen,
Where will the 24-year-old Huntington Beach, California native end up in 2024? Here are five possibilities.
Zane Smith 2024 NASCAR landing spots: No. 1 – Stewart-Haas Racing
Stewart-Haas Racing appears to be arguably the most appealing spot for Zane Smith in 2024, even amid their recent struggles in the Cup Series.
While he didn’t get the nod to replace Kevin Harvick behind the wheel of the No. 4 Ford, the No. 10 Ford could still end up needing a new driver as Aric Almirola ponders his future, which could very well include retirement as early as after the 2023 season.
Moving to Stewart-Haas Racing would allow Smith to remain with Ford, which would presumably make it easier for him to switch teams even after signing his Front Row Motorsports deal last year.