DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 14: Sammy Smith, driver of the #8 Pilot Chevrolet, looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series United Rentals 300 at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, 2026 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images
DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 14: Sammy Smith, driver of the #8 Pilot Chevrolet, looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series United Rentals 300 at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, 2026 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Sammy Smith not returning to JR Motorsports in 2027

Sammy Smith will depart JR Motorsports at the conclusion of the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season. He shared the news on Wednesday evening.

“After this season, I’ll be moving on from JR Motorsports and into a new chapter,” Smith posted on X. “I’m incredibly grateful for everyone at JRM who has been part of the last three years. Being a part of this No. 8 team has given me so much to be proud of, and I’ll always be thankful for the people who have helped me get to this point.

“But the job isn’t finished yet. My full focus is on this championship run, for my team, our partners and everyone who has believed in me along the way. Nothing is given. Everything is earned.

“I’m excited for what’s next and for the opportunity ahead.”

Smith has won a pair of races in 89 starts with JRM. He finished eighth in the championship standings last year.

Entering the regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway, Smith ranks eighth on The Chase grid. He has six top-five and 10 top-10 finishes in the opening 23 races of the 2026 campaign.