Tensions between Zane Smith’s team and Carson Hocevar escalated sharply after the Iowa Corn 350 race on Sunday, following an on-track collision that fueled frustration and conflict. The growing Zane Smith Carson Hocevar tension spilled into heated exchanges both on the radio and in a post-race confrontation.
Collision During the Race Ignites Hostility
During the race, Carson Hocevar caused Zane Smith to spin out, prompting a retaliatory move from Smith later in the event. This competitive clash set the stage for rising animosity that carried over after the race ended. The incident left Smith’s team visibly upset as the on-track drama intensified their rivalry.
Post-Race Confrontation Between Smith’s Crew Chief and Hocevar
Following the race, Ryan Bergenty, Zane Smith’s crew chief, interrupted an interview Hocevar was giving to confront him directly about the collision. Video footage reveals Bergenty aggressively initiating the exchange with blunt language directed at Hocevar.
Hey, when are you going to learn to f****** drive, dude? I mean you wiped us the f*** out.
—Ryan Bergenty, Zane Smith’s Crew Chief
Additional comments by Bergenty were captured by journalist Stephen Stumpf, illustrating the severity of the crew chief’s anger over the incident.
Our car is fucking wrecked because you drive like a f****** r****d,
—Ryan Bergenty, Zane Smith’s Crew Chief
Smith’s Own Frustration Extends to His Team
The collision was not only a point of contention between the drivers; it also led Smith to express frustration with his own crew over race strategy and communication. Over the team radio, Zane Smith sharply criticized his crew’s instructions and decisions during the event.
Gotta quit telling me how to f****** drive these things, dude, Every time I poke middle we get f****** wrecked.
—Zane Smith, Driver
Smith was also irritated that his pit box sign was not properly displayed during pit stops, compounding an already disappointing race day. These factors contributed to Smith’s overall dissatisfaction with what had been a challenging and forgettable afternoon.
Race Results Reflect the Difficult Day for Smith
Zane Smith finished the race in 36th place, second-to-last, marking a tough outcome compared to Hocevar, who managed to secure a top-10 finish, ending eighth. The contrast in results highlights the impact the collision had on Smith’s performance and added fuel to their ongoing rivalry.
Future Implications of the Smith-Hocevar Rivalry
This incident adds to the list of conflicts surrounding Carson Hocevar, who has gained a reputation for aggressive driving that has caused friction with other competitors. Given the intensity of these exchanges, all eyes will be on how Smith and Hocevar interact in upcoming races, as their tension threatens to influence both their strategies and the atmosphere on the NASCAR circuit moving forward.