Carson Hocevar, known for his bold presence in NASCAR, opened up about his mindset and driving inspiration during a recent conversation with Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the Dale Jr. Download podcast. The discussion highlighted Hocevar’s genuine passion and the personal values that fuel his competitive spirit in NASCAR racing motivation.
Hocevar Opens Up About His Driving Passion and Career Milestones
Since his Cup Series debut in 2023, Michigan native Carson Hocevar has divided opinions within the NASCAR community, partly due to his aggressive driving style. Despite being labeled a troublemaker on the track, Hocevar expressed a clear understanding of what propels him forward, valuing intensity and authenticity over popularity.
Reflecting on key moments in his career, Hocevar emphasized that signing contracts was never the defining achievement. Instead, he pointed to specific race events as milestones that shaped his journey.
I think the most surreal moments is like, you know, like, for me, was making it in my…like not signing…making it for me was not signing my contract. That wasn’t doing it like it, it was like specific time in races.
—Carson Hocevar, NASCAR driver
His description of racing in the Cup Series brought attention to the thrill and pressure that come with competing at the highest level. Hocevar recalled stepping in for the No. 42 car at Legacy Motor Club in 2023 after Noah Gragson’s departure and how finishing fifth at Bristol night race represented a standout moment early in his Cup experience.
You know, filling in for the 42 car (at Legacy Motor Club in 2023, after Noah Gragson left) at Bristol and running fifth, and running fifth in the night race. You know, running as good as we did on my first day at St. Louis,
—Carson Hocevar, NASCAR driver
Memorable Moments Define Hocevar’s Commitment and Drive
Hocevar vividly described the intensity of racing at Watkins Glen, highlighting the stark contrast between the noise of competition and a sudden, almost surreal silence during a crucial moment. This quiet allowed him to reflect on the importance of his commitment to the sport and the high standards he holds himself to as a competitor.
I remember, you know, lining up, scuffing my tires at Watkins Glenn, and you know, you’re green, white checker number two, lining up on the front row. I remember rolling down the, you know, just after the bus stop, and it was like everything just got quiet.
—Carson Hocevar, NASCAR driver
That moment of clarity made Hocevar question his dedication to racing, revealing the depth of his internal drive. He confessed that if the sport did not live up to the meaning he hoped for, he would be ready to leave it behind.
I just kind of looked around, and I never look around. I remember just looking around, just going like, you know, for me, if this isn’t what it all meant out to be, like I was gonna walk. I would walk away.
—Carson Hocevar, NASCAR driver
Hocevar’s Stand Against Complacency in the NASCAR Community
Expressing frustration with fellow drivers who seem to lack passion, Hocevar described the difference between those who race for fulfillment and others who appear to treat it as just a job. He strongly opposed the idea of settling for mediocrity or simply “collecting a paycheck,” emphasizing the importance of relentless effort in his own career.
There’s times where I’d be watching guys and just feeling like they’re there to collect a paycheck, or they don’t care to be one spot better. You don’t see the passion out of them, and I was just like, it’s against everything in my life to do that. So, I was like I’ll never get there.
—Carson Hocevar, NASCAR driver
His candid revelations provide insight into the mindset that drives Hocevar to compete fiercely, despite the criticism. As he continues to navigate the challenges of the Cup Series with Spire Motorsports, his outspoken stance on passion and authenticity may shape both his career trajectory and how fans perceive his role within NASCAR.