When the NASCAR Xfinity Series returns to Daytona International Speedway in 2025, fans and competitors alike will be buzzing with excitement and anticipation. It won’t just be the start of a new season, but the return of a legendary number to the track.
That’s right, the iconic number 8 will once again grace the high banks of Daytona, this time under the ownership of young up-and-comer Sammy Smith. The 19-year-old driver from Des Moines, Iowa has been turning heads in the ARCA Menards Series, and is now ready to make his mark in the Xfinity Series with the support of JR Motorsports.
But it’s not just Smith’s talent behind the wheel that has people talking. It’s the number he will be racing under – the same number made famous by one of NASCAR’s most beloved and iconic figures, Dale Earnhardt Jr.
For those unfamiliar with the history, Earnhardt Jr. made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 1999 driving the #8 Chevrolet for his father’s team, Dale Earnhardt Inc. He quickly became a fan favorite for his raw talent, daring driving style, and charismatic personality. He went on to secure 26 Cup Series wins, including two Daytona 500 victories, before retiring in 2017.
In a move that surprised and disappointed many fans, when Earnhardt Jr. retired, he took his iconic number with him. The #8 was retired from the Cup Series, leaving a void in NASCAR and in the hearts of fans.
But now, thanks to young Sammy Smith and JR Motorsports, the number 8 will once again be roaring around the tracks of the Xfinity Series. And while some may question the decision to “bring back” a retired number, the move has been met with overwhelming support and excitement.
For Smith, being able to race under the #8 is a dream come true. “Growing up, I was a huge fan of Dale Jr. and the #8 team,” he says. “To now have the opportunity to carry on that legacy and race under the same number is an honor and a privilege.”
But it’s not just about nostalgia or honoring Earnhardt Jr.’s legacy. Owner of JR Motorsports, Kelley Earnhardt Miller, believes that bringing back the #8 is a smart business move for the team. “With Sammy’s talent and potential, we know the #8 car will be a top contender every week,” she states. “Plus, having the number back on the track will undoubtedly bring even more attention and interest to our team and our sponsors.”
And the sponsors are certainly taking notice. In fact, the announcement of Smith driving the #8 car has already secured multiple new sponsors for JR Motorsports, including longtime Earnhardt Jr. sponsor, Hellmann’s.
For fans, the return of the #8 is a much-needed bright spot in a sport that has seen its fair share of changes and challenges in recent years. The announcement has been met with an outpouring of positive reactions on social media, with fans expressing their excitement to see the number back on the track and rooting for Smith to succeed.
Even NASCAR officials are thrilled to see the #8 back in action. “The number 8 holds a special place in the hearts of NASCAR fans,” says NASCAR President Steve Phelps. “Having it back on the track is a testament to the sport’s rich history and the continued evolution of the next generation of drivers.”
As for Earnhardt Jr. himself, he couldn’t be happier to see the #8 return to competition. In a statement, he expressed his support for Smith and congratulated him on the opportunity to drive under the familiar number. “I know Sammy will do the number proud and I can’t wait to see the #8 back out there battling for wins,” Earnhardt Jr. says.
So when the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season kicks off at Daytona International Speedway, all eyes will be on Sammy Smith and his #8 Chevrolet Camaro. And while he may have some big shoes to fill, there’s no doubt that he is ready to make the number his own and continue the legacy of the iconic #8 in NASCAR.
