Carson Hocevar, known for his aggressive driving style in the 2025 NASCAR season, received an unexpected show of support at Richmond Raceway. During the Cook Out 400 weekend, a handwritten note reading I love Carson Hocevar with a heart was discovered in the infield tunnel, catching the attention of Spire Motorsports and fans alike. This message stood out amid controversies surrounding Hocevar’s on-track conduct this season.
Hocevar, who pilots the #77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet, has experienced multiple contentious interactions, including a notably heated exchange with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who warned Hocevar, he was going to be his a**. Tensions have also risen within his own team following repeated contact with teammate Michael McDowell at Watkins Glen International.
Race performance and team updates from Richmond Raceway
Starting 15th in the 400-lap Richmond race, Hocevar ultimately finished in the same position. Meanwhile, Austin Dillon captured the race victory, marking his return to the playoffs after three years. Alex Bowman, another driver vying for a playoff berth, finished second, followed by Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano, and Austin Cindric in the subsequent positions.
Hocevar’s teammates faced varied outcomes, with Michael McDowell finishing 17th and Justin Haley, driver of the #7 car, involved in a multi-car incident on lap 198, which resulted in a did-not-finish (DNF) for Haley. Chase Elliott was also forced out early after making contact with Kyle Busch and hitting the wall.
With one race remaining in the regular season, Hocevar still has a chance to secure a spot in the playoffs by winning the regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway.
Hocevar addresses rising tensions and his focused mindset amid conflicts
Reflecting on his confrontations throughout the season, Hocevar acknowledged the frequent shifts in who he is at odds with on the track. The 22-year-old from Michigan shared during a Zoom interview hosted by NASCAR broadcaster Claire B. Lang that he does not keep track of who’s upset with him, as the list seems to change weekly.
“I don’t take a head count of who’s frustrated with us or mad at us. You know, I think it’s constantly, you know, changing by the week at times.” —Carson Hocevar
Hocevar also discussed NASCAR’s role in supporting drivers. He noted their efforts to increase visibility and help drivers be recognized as professional racecar drivers to grow the sport’s fanbase.
“They help us or have been a lot more vocal, at least, of trying to help us be in the spots we want to be in, different things like that to hopefully grow the sport, put more people in the stands. Or at least just when people see us at sports, they can know that’s a racecar driver and that he races a NASCAR, and not just wondering who’s on their TV at some other sporting event or whatever. … So NASCAR maybe helps on that side but that’s about it.” —Carson Hocevar
Besides disputes with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Michael McDowell, Hocevar has also encountered confrontations with Zane Smith and Brad Keselowski this year. Despite the increasing conflicts, Hocevar remains determined to race according to his own style and approach.
Implications for Hocevar’s playoff prospects and future races
As the regular-season finale at Daytona International Speedway approaches, Hocevar’s playoff hopes hinge on his ability to secure a race win. The anonymous message at Richmond may have provided a welcome morale boost during a challenging period marked by rivalries and team tensions. How Hocevar performs next week could define his progress in the 2025 NASCAR season and influence the dynamic within Spire Motorsports.