As we look forward to the 2024 Cup Series season, there’s no doubt it will be filled with excitement thanks to the influx of new entries. However, as the season draws to a close, there’s still anticipation surrounding some announcements. Speculations have been swirling, particularly regarding the future of Aric Almirola, who drives for Tony Stewart’s team.

Who will replace Almirola? In a recent interview during Josh Berry’s announcement, Tony Stewart emphasized that the team is focused on recruiting talented drivers rather than those with connections. However, it appears that one driver who had caught the attention of Tony Stewart as a potential replacement for Almirola is now slipping away.

A recent development may put a halt to Tony Stewart for his aspirations

While there hasn’t been an official announcement from Tony Stewart regarding Aric Almirola’s future, he currently sits in 23rd place, while his teammate Kevin Harvick is in contention for the championship. Earlier this year, rumors swirled about Zane Smith potentially replacing Almirola in the #10 car next year.

Zane Smith is currently running a full-time truck series with Front Row Motorsports and driving part-time for #36 and #38 Ford for FRM as well. The #31 car at Kaulig Racing will be vacant next year because Justin Haley is moving to Rick Ware Racing. The question remains: where will Zane Smith go?

Recently, Smith gave fans a surprising glimpse into his future plans during an interview on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. He stated, “My deal is done. And I know what am I doing but hopefully, the news will come out this week or sometime soon. We’re working hard to getting the announcement out. It was signed last week, everything I ever wanted, and super excited for it and through the future, I hold.”

Zane Smith further added, “And yeah like I said weight off my shoulders knowing that I have a future in the sport we all know I feel like any professional sport from a driver athlete side you never know when your time’s gonna end and so to se sone clarity in a paved road is super exciting So just another weight off my shoulders to go focus on go perform a Bristol”

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This tweet has sparked anticipation among fans, who have been sharing their predictions and speculations in the comment section.

Where can Zane Smith go next?

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Clearly, Smith has aspirations to move up to the Cup Series, and fans have been making predictions about the various options and open seats that could be available for him. Some fans have attempted to make assumptions based on his statements, trying to speculate about his future plans in the sport. Interestingly, most of the comments were towards Kaulig Racing.

One fan’s comment raised anticipation in the community,

“It’s really kinda exciting with the anticipation between the 31, 16 & 10 for what’s happening in all of those cars. Chris says no one will see what’s coming & since then, Matt announced he is leaving, Noah is reinstated & Zane has a yet-to-be-announced deal…it’s all intriguing”

“Kaulig”

“Hmmm either Kaulig or something”

“Hoping for Kaulig 31”

“Imagine it’s 23XI”

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Other fan surprisingly wrote,

“To me this says we are waiting on Almirola’s retirement announcement.”

“Number 10.”

Some fans have attempted to make assumptions based on his statements, trying to speculate about his future plans in the sport.

“Definitely sounds like a Cup ride with a statement like “what I’ve always wanted.”

“When he said “A paved road ahead” I’m thinking it’s 23Xi contract with a guaranteed part time ride and future ride. Otherwise.. definitely the 10!!”

While the final announcement has not been made, it’s clear that many fans are strongly speculating that Zane Smith may be headed to Kaulig Racing. However, without an official confirmation, it’s still uncertain. What are your thoughts?