We Now Know Who Will Drive the JR Motorsports 8 Car in 2024

What’s Happening?

One of the most intriguing rides of NASCAR Silly Season has been the JR Motorports 8 car, and Jr Motorsports announced on Tuesday that Sammy Smith will leave Joe Gibbs Racing to take over the ride in 2024. JRM also announced that Pilot Flying J will move to the team along with Smith.

You Need to Know:

• Sammy Smith is 19 years old from Johnston, Iowa, and he has enjoyed a solid first full-time season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He won his first career race at Phoenix in the spring, and he is currently on pace to make the Round of 8 in the Xfinity Series Playoffs. He has been a JGR prospect for pretty much his entire professional racing career.
• JRM has been searching for the next driver of the 8 car since Josh Berry announced he would be moving on to the Cup Series with Stewart-Haas Racing. With the signing of Smith, JRM has not completed their driver lineup for 2024 with Smith joining Justin Allgaier in the 7, Brandon Jones in the 9, and Sam Mayer in the 1.
• Fans on social media were surprised at the announcement. Sammy Smith was never a serious contender in the minds of many, but that doesn’t mean people hate the move. People are generally excited to see what he can do in his new ride, but there are some skeptics in there as well.

In the Stands

NASCARnerd said he did not expect this move from JRM or Smith

J. Michael H. Paul wants to see Trevor Bayne get the 18 car in the Xfinity Series.

Lucas S calls this a massive win for JRM and Chevy.

Alexander notes it being another prospect that Toyota has let go.

JT does not appear to be a fan of the lineup.

James Bradford says that Sammy Smith isn’t that good.

junior88fan4life is happy for Sammy Smith.

wyatt is changing allegiances after this announcement.

dalers902 notes that Toyota has plenty of young drivers in their stable, so is losing Smith that big of a deal?

From the Pressbox

Bob Pockrass gives his take on who will replace Smith at JGR in 2024.

Sammy Smith is now with JRM, and Joe Gibbs Racing again has a young driver poached. However, Toyota is pretty built up in terms of talent, so, maybe Smith’s loss is not that big of a deal.