Carson Hocevar has become one of the most talked-about drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series, with his fearless approach drawing both attention and criticism. Following the recent Ricky Stenhouse Jr incident with Carson Hocevar, NASCAR veterans Carl Edwards and Dale Earnhardt Jr. publicly cautioned Hocevar about the risks of his aggressive tactics. Their comments came on the Prime Video post-race show shortly after the event unfolded.
Hocevar, known for racing at full throttle and refusing to hold back, stated before the race that he wants to avoid regrets in his driving career. However, Edwards and Earnhardt Jr. pointed out that there is a delicate balance between boldness and recklessness, and Hocevar’s recent behavior could have negative consequences if it continues unchecked.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Calls Out Hocevar’s Post-Incident Remarks
After hearing Hocevar’s account of the collision with Stenhouse, Dale Earnhardt Jr. sounded a clear warning. He suggested that Hocevar seemed unaware that he had actually caused the crash by hitting another driver from behind. While praising Hocevar’s talent and personality, Earnhardt Jr. expressed disappointment at what he perceived as unnecessary contact on the track.
“Well, I hear a guy that doesn’t know that he ran into the back of somebody and wrecked them,”
Earnhardt said.
Hey, I’ll call it like it is. I like Hocevar a lot. Kid’s awesome. Ran second tonight. I like his attitude, I like his personality, and I like his style. But yeah, I think he could have cut the 47 a break, and he chose not to do that.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Earnhardt Jr. acknowledged that Hocevar’s aggressive style has its fans and that many appreciate his unapologetic approach. Still, he believes Hocevar needed to be more considerate during the Stenhouse incident.
“That’s his way that he wants to race. He’s not very apologetic about it. A lot of people are going to love that. A lot of people are going to love how he races and how he does his job. From what I saw tonight, I think he probably could have gave Ricky an opportunity there and continued to race. And he’ll have to hear that side from Ricky, and it will be interesting to see how that plays out.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Carl Edwards Shares His Perspective on Hocevar’s Risks
Carl Edwards agreed with Earnhardt Jr.’s cautious take on Hocevar’s driving. Reflecting on his own experiences, Edwards underscored that aggressive racing often comes with a cost, warning the young driver about the potential price he might pay in the future.
“He sat up here in the pre-race and said, ‘Hey, I’m just going to be aggressive. No regrets, I’m going to go, I’m going to get it.’ And there you see it,”
Edwards said.
“And I talked about it a little bit, but there’s a price, and it hurts, and I’ve been there, and it’s not fun to be on the receiving end of what’s coming.”
—Carl Edwards
Edwards’ remarks highlight the thin line between confidence and overreach on the track, a lesson he hopes Hocevar will learn sooner rather than later.
Balancing Entertainment Value and Respect Among Drivers
Despite the warnings, Dale Earnhardt Jr. emphasized that Hocevar’s performance is entertaining to watch and brings much-needed energy to the sport. He values the young driver’s personality and enthusiasm, but also noted the importance of respecting fellow racers in the garage.
“I like what I see out of Hocevar. As a fan and a broadcaster, it is entertaining,”
Earnhardt said.
I just don’t like it when he wrecks the good guy, you know? I know Stenhouse has had his issues, too, but you kinda gotta pick and choose who your enemies are, and you can’t just kind of blanket the garage, right?”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
He further explained that while controversy keeps the sport interesting, there are limits to what is acceptable, and more experienced drivers tend to self-regulate the competition. Earnhardt Jr. implied that by clashing with Stenhouse, Hocevar might have crossed a line this time.
“So, I don’t know that I want him to dial it off or dial it back because it’s great as a fan to see him in controversy. We need a little color, we need a little personality, and he brings tons of it. But the garage kind of will police it a little bit. To your point, Corey, nobody’s really stepped to him just yet, but I think he might have messed with the wrong guy tonight.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Implications for Hocevar’s Future in NASCAR
The Ricky Stenhouse Jr incident with Carson Hocevar serves as a pivotal moment for the young driver’s career. With guidance from seasoned racers like Carl Edwards and Dale Earnhardt Jr., Hocevar faces a choice between refining his approach or risking alienation within the NASCAR community. Their insights underscore the challenge drivers face balancing aggressive racing tactics with maintaining respect and safety on the track.
As Hocevar continues to mature as a competitor, how he responds to this feedback could determine his long-term standing and success in the sport. NASCAR fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see if the “wild child” adapts or continues on his current path.