Layne Riggs claimed a commanding win in the OnlyBulls Green Flag 150 held at St. Petersburg, marking his sixth career victory in 57 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series starts and his first triumph of the 2026 season. The race on the challenging street course took place on Saturday, where Riggs delivered a strong performance, finishing first after placing seventh in Stage One and winning Stage Two. This victory also marked Front Row Motorsports’ first success with sponsor Long John Silver’s at Victory Lane. Following the race, Riggs moved up to fifth in the driver championship standings.
Details of Riggs’ Performance and Strategy
Riggs reflected on the experience at St. Pete, describing it as one of the most exciting road course races he has competed in during his Truck Series career. He addressed common expectations surrounding street courses, where passing is often difficult and side-by-side racing limited, explaining that St. Petersburg defied those assumptions. Riggs credited extensive preparation, including work with Joey Hand from Ford Racing, who supported him through simulator training since the previous December to improve his road course skills.
“It was a lot of fun racing here at St. Pete. I think that everybody heard street course. They heard not going to be able to pass. Not great side-by-side racing. This is one of the most racy tracks we have gone to in the Truck Series, at least in my time going, on a road course. It was a lot of fun. That is a testament to everybody at Front Row Motorsports. I want to give my first shoutout to Joey Hand from Ford Racing. He has done a lot of work with me at the road courses, at St. Pete here with me. We have been practicing on the Ford Racing simulator since December trying to get better. My goal going into this year, I said I really want to get a win out of my comfort zone. I think I am labeled as the short track guy and I feel like now I can do it at all of them. At least at the majority of them. I am still working on the superspeedways. It was just great to broaden the wins I have gotten. I think it is really showing I am perfecting my craft and I am a force to be reckoned with no matter where we go.”
— Layne Riggs, Driver
Chandler Smith and Team Performance Highlights
Chandler Smith, Riggs’ teammate, also delivered a noteworthy performance at St. Petersburg, finishing fourth overall after placing fourth and second in the two stages. Smith emphasized the strength within the team following the event, highlighting their competitive trucks and valuable learning experiences gathered throughout the race. His solid finish contributed important championship points and encouraged the team’s momentum into future races.
“It was a solid points day for this team, and to come home fourth is something I’m really proud of. To be that close and still see our teammate win the race makes it special. That shows how strong our program is right now. We had a fast truck all day, learned a lot, and this is something we can build on moving forward.”
— Chandler Smith, Driver
The Race’s Significance and Outlook for Front Row Motorsports
Layne Riggs’ win at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg demonstrates his evolving versatility beyond short tracks and asserts Front Row Motorsports’ growing capability in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. This victory on a demanding street course enhances Riggs’ reputation as a rising contender and sets a promising tone for the team’s outlook this season. With continued teamwork and development, both Riggs and Smith appear well-positioned to contend for higher championship placements in the upcoming races.
