MOORESVILLE, N.C. – Rick Ware Racing will bring back Pennsylvania native Garrett Smithley for a partial schedule in the NASCAR Cup Series this year.

Smithley ran 26 races for Rick Ware Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series last season.

“I’m incredibly excited to be back with RWR. We really had a great year last year, and honestly raced a lot more than I was planning to, which is always a good sign,” said Smithley. “Rick has given me some amazing opportunities throughout the year, and I’m excited to capitalize on this one in 2021.”

Smithley, from Ligonier, Pa., made his name known in the racing industry by working his way up the ladder from the U.S. Legends Car ranks to the NASCAR Cup Series.

Smithley’s talents were recognized by Daytona 500 champion Derrike Cope, which led Smithley to make his stock car debut in the ARCA Menards Series.

Following his time in ARCA, Smithley raced in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, which led to a full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series ride with JD Motorsports from 2016-19.

“We are really excited to have Garrett back in our cars after a memorable 2020 season,” noted team owner Rick Ware. “We plan on building on the chemistry Garrett and the team gained after some great runs last year.”

Smithley’s schedule of races will be announced at a later date.