G.R. Smith expresses disappointment over Drake Troutman's departure from Team 22 Inc
Yahoo Sports • 2 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 4:20 AM
Last updated Jun 25, 2026
G.R. Smith of Team 22 Inc. voiced his disappointment following Drake Troutman's decision to leave the team. Troutman made the announcement on Tuesday, influencing the split by recent mechanical failures and a desire for a longer commitment from Smith. Smith had envisioned long-term success with Troutman, who has been key in elevating Team 22's performance since its debut in January 2025. Troutman is reportedly considering a new opportunity with Jerry Foster's Dirt Late Model operation. Smith acknowledges Troutman's decision comes amid evolving dynamics in Dirt Late Model racing, likening it to recruitment in college athletics.
- •Drake Troutman informed G.R. Smith of his departure on June 25, 2026.
- •Troutman considered a new opportunity with Jerry Foster's upcoming team.
- •Smith expressed a desire for long-term partnership with Troutman.
- •Troutman's decision followed recent mechanical issues during races.
- •Smith likened the situation to competitive recruiting seen in college sports.
- 4:58 AMYahoo Sports — G.R. Smith Addresses Drake Troutman Leaving Team 22 Inc.: 'I Was Crushed'
- 4:20 AMYahoo Sports — G.R. Smith Addresses Drake Troutman Leaving Team 22 Inc: 'I Was Crushed'
"G.R. Smith believed his Team 22 Inc. was finally building toward something special with Drake Troutman. The Cornelius, N.C., car owner watched the 21-year-old from Hyndman, Pa., elevate his program every step of the way since they debuted in January 2025 at the Wild West Shootout, especially throughout the first half of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series season. Until Troutman informed him Tuesday morning of his decision to leave, Smith envisioned winning races and contending for championships alongside the young driver for the long haul.
"G.R. Smith believed his Team 22 Inc. was finally building toward something special with Drake Troutman. The Cornelius, N.C., car owner watched the 21-year-old from Hyndman, Pa., elevate his program every step of the way since they debuted in January 2025 at the Wild West Shootout, especially throughout the first half of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series season. Until Troutman informed him Tuesday morning of his decision to leave, Smith envisioned winning races and contending for championships alongside the young driver for the long haul.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 25, 2026, 4:58 AMG.R. Smith Addresses Drake Troutman Leaving Team 22 Inc.: 'I Was Crushed'
G.R. Smith believed his Team 22 Inc. was finally building toward something special with Drake Troutman. The Cornelius, N.C., car owner watched the 21-year-old from Hyndman, Pa., elevate his program every step of the way since they debuted in January 2025 at the Wild West Shootout, especially throughout the first half of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series season. Until Troutman informed him Tuesday morning of his decision to leave, Smith envisioned winning races and contending for championships alongside the young driver for the long haul.
- Yahoo SportsJun 25, 2026, 4:20 AMG.R. Smith Addresses Drake Troutman Leaving Team 22 Inc: 'I Was Crushed'
G.R. Smith believed his Team 22 Inc. was finally building toward something special with Drake Troutman. The Cornelius, N.C., car owner watched the 21-year-old from Hyndman, Pa., elevate his program every step of the way since they debuted in January 2025 at the Wild West Shootout, especially throughout the first half of the World of Outlaws Late Model Series season. Until Troutman informed him Tuesday morning of his decision to leave, Smith envisioned winning races and contending for championships alongside the young driver for the long haul.
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