Aric Almirola already had been announced as Regan Smith’s replacement as Mark Martin’s co-driver, with Smith moving to the 14 car. When that team folded, Smith was left without a ride, much to Martin’s concern.

“Nobody is working harder on Regan’s behalf than me, probably not even himself,” Martin said. “I’m a huge fan of Regan’s and he is going to come out of this very well, based on the things he’s done this past year, he has really emerged and is recognized as being ready to go out here. He’s shown the maturity and the speed and everything it takes to be a Nextel Cup driver.”

Martin was brought into Ginn not only to run a partial schedule with the #01, but also to serve as a mentor for Smith and developmental driver Ricky Carmichael.

Richmond Times Dispatch

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