Motorsports’ Reject Hoping to Rely on France Family’s Mercy for His FRM Return
As NASCAR’s 2025 “Silly Season” heats up, several teams are shuffling their rosters in preparation for next year, with drivers jockeying for new positions.
One of the most notable moves comes from Spire Motorsports, which recently parted ways with Corey LaJoie, leaving the #7 car open for a new driver.
LaJoie, a fixture at Spire since the team’s early NASCAR days, is now a free agent. In another surprising turn, Trackhouse Racing’s Zane Smith, on loan to Spire for his first full-time season, has also left the team, sparking speculation about his next move.
Despite the setback, rumors are circulating that Zane Smith could return to Front Row Motorsports (FRM), where he found success in previous seasons. FRM is reportedly exploring expansion, and bringing Smith back could benefit both the driver and the team, given their past achievements together.
NASCAR analyst Eric Estepp weighed in on the situation in a recent video. “A few weeks ago, folks told me there was no chance Front Row would take Zane Smith back after he left for Chevrolet. They said he burned that bridge. But now, it seems that isn’t the case. If the sponsorship aligns, I don’t think any lingering resentment would stop Front Row from bringing him on board.”
However, a potential hurdle remains: the ongoing debate over NASCAR’s charter system. FRM is one of two teams still negotiating the terms of their charter deal, pushing for a larger revenue share and permanent charters, which could delay any plans for a third entry in their lineup.
FRM owner Bob Jenkins shared his frustrations, stating, “There have been things during these negotiations that we just don’t agree with. We’re committed to good faith discussions, but I’m not sure the same can be said on the other side. My hope is we’ll continue the conversation and come to a resolution.”
Should FRM secure a third charter, Smith could join the team’s 2025 lineup alongside Todd Gilliland and Noah Gragson. Estepp commented, “I’m not sure they’ll be great, maybe not even good, but they’ll certainly be interesting. I’m looking forward to seeing what Smith adds to the team.”
Meanwhile, Corey LaJoie’s future remains uncertain. With a rough 2024 season—no wins, just one top-5 finish, and an average finish of 23.11—LaJoie may find himself demoted to the Truck Series. Still, there’s a chance he could remain in the Cup Series. NASCAR insider Jordan Bianchi from The Athletic has suggested that LaJoie might land with Rick Ware Racing (RWR).
LaJoie himself expressed optimism about his future, saying, “People are interested, and calls are being made. Every door that’s opened for me wasn’t one I forced open. I have faith that the right opportunity will come, whether in the Cup Series or elsewhere.”
If Zane Smith secures the rumored FRM seat, LaJoie’s most likely landing spot could be with RWR, especially if Justin Haley takes over the #7 car at Spire Motorsports. A swap between LaJoie and Haley would bring a young talent to Spire, while RWR would gain a veteran presence with a loyal sponsor in Celcius, potentially aiding the team’s efforts to solidify its place in NASCAR.
Where Zane Smith and Corey LaJoie ultimately end up remains to be seen, but it’s clear that their next moves will shape the 2025 season.
