Carson Hocevar criticized NASCAR Truck Series management sharply following a contentious restart at the Pocono Raceway on Friday. The 22-year-old driver expressed frustration over what he saw as a misunderstanding of the rules by the series’ managing director during the closing laps of the race.
Dispute Emerges During Pocono Restart
Hocevar, driving the No. 7 Spire Motorsports truck, was positioned third on the outside row behind race leader Corey Heim with 19 laps remaining. Just before the restart, the No. 11 truck, which had experienced a string of misfortunes despite winning four races this season, suffered a flat right-rear tire. The driver from that truck fell back significantly as a result, handing the lead to Layne Riggs in the No. 34 truck, who controlled the restart from the inside lane.
Kevin Harvick pointed out Riggs’ position on the Fox broadcast, underscoring the unusual circumstances of the restart. Initially, NASCAR announced a review of the situation before imposing a penalty on Hocevar’s truck, a decision that fueled the driver’s anger.
Hocevar Expresses Discontent Over Penalty
Hocevar voiced his disagreement immediately over team radio, calling the situation “a joke.” His spotter echoed these sentiments, saying,
“Yes sir, series is becoming a joke, copy,”
which Hocevar followed up with a pointed comment, “Good job, Seth,” criticizing Truck Series Managing Director Seth Kramlich’s handling of the rules.
Despite starting the final 19 laps with hope, Hocevar finished 13th, while Layne Riggs went on to win the race. Over the radio, Hocevar lamented, “Should have won,” before adding,
“Can’t help that somebody doesn’t know the rules.”
Context of Hocevar’s Recent Controversies
This incident adds to a recent streak of controversies involving Hocevar. Earlier in the week, he faced a $50,000 fine and mandatory sensitivity training for making offensive remarks about Mexico during a Twitch stream. His growing frustrations seem to reflect both on and off the track challenges this season.
Implications for NASCAR Truck Series and Management
Hocevar’s open criticism shines a spotlight on NASCAR Truck Series’ rule enforcement and management decisions, raising concerns among fans and participants about consistency and transparency. The public dispute with managing director Seth Kramlich may prompt NASCAR to reevaluate communication and penalties to maintain fairness and credibility within the series.