MOORESVILLE, N.C. — Reigning NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion Zane Smith will compete in additional NASCAR Cup Series races for Front Row Motorsports.
Smith will pilot an open entry for the Daytona 500 in the No. 36 Ford, then replace Todd Gilliland in the No. 38 for up to six races.
Smith, who will attempt to qualify for the season-opening Daytona 500 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, will also compete at the following events with sponsor Centene Corporation:
• Phoenix Raceway (March)
• Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway (April)
• Sonoma Raceway (June)
• Texas Motor Speedway (September)
• Charlotte Motor Speedway (October)
Centene Corporation will also be aboard Smith’s full-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series entry as both a primary and associate sponsor, including at Miami-Homestead Speedway on October 21.
“We want to welcome Centene Corporation to Front Row Motorsports,” said Bob Jenkins, owner, Front Row Motorsports. “This is an example of another well-respected and premier company to join our organization and the sport. Their support also allows us to move Zane up into the NASCAR Cup Series part-time and continue his growth while also helping us defend our NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship. We’re excited for the year ahead.”
The partnership will feature Ambetter Health and Wellcare aboard Smith’s Ford Mustang.
“I’m fortunate to have a great sponsor of Centene’s stature to step up and support me and Front Row Motorsports as I look to gain racing experience in the NASCAR Cup Series while at the same time defending the NASCAR Craftsman title,” said the 23-year-old Smith. “I’m excited to represent Ambetter Health and Wellcare as Centene continues to grow their involvement in NASCAR and their healthcare presence across the United States.”