Chandler Smith, a prominent competitor in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, is set to re-enter the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series this weekend and the following one. He will drive the No. 5 Ford Mustang for Hettinger Racing, marking a significant return to the series where he previously competed full-time.
Season Progress and Recent Performance Highlights
At 23 years old, Smith has not raced in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series since late 2024, when he ran full-time with Joe Gibbs Racing. That season, he delivered a strong championship campaign but narrowly missed advancing to the Round of Four. Since transitioning from JGR, Smith has become a key driver for Front Row Motorsports in the Craftsman Truck Series. This season, he leads the Truck Series points standings after three events, boasting one victory, two top-five finishes, and three top-ten results.
Hettinger Racing’s Developing Presence and Strategic Move
Hettinger Racing has been navigating its early stages in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, partnering with Ford to pursue a part-time schedule this year. Their best result has been a 20th-place finish, and they failed to qualify for the latest race at COTA. With Smith joining their lineup for the upcoming races at Phoenix and Las Vegas, Hettinger hopes to capitalize on his experience and recent success in both series.
Smith’s Track Record on Phoenix and Las Vegas Circuits
Smith’s history at Phoenix is particularly noteworthy, with two wins, seven top-five finishes, and nine top-ten results across nine combined starts in the Truck and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. This expertise could prove vital for Hettinger Racing as they aim to improve their standing and compete more effectively in these events.
Anticipated Impact and Future Outlook
By enlisting a points leader like Smith, Hettinger Racing may be positioning itself to gain momentum early in the season. Smith’s proven skills on these tracks and recent form in the Truck Series suggest he is well-equipped to elevate the team’s performance. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if this partnership can deliver stronger finishes and boost Hettinger’s presence in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
“The current @NASCAR_Trucks point leader takes the wheel of our No. 5 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for the next two @NASCAROReillyAP races at @PhoenixRaceway and @LVMotorSpeedway. Welcome to the team, @CSmith_Racing! #NASCAR” ?Hettinger Racing, Official Team Statement
The current @NASCAR_Trucks point leader takes the wheel of our No. 5 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for the next two @NASCAROReillyAP races at @PhoenixRaceway and @LVMotorSpeedway. Welcome to the team, @CSmith_Racing! #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/TiSC0wGhkv
— HettingerRacing (@HettingerRacing) March 2, 2026
