The intensity of NASCAR was on full display at Texas Motor Speedway, where Carson Hocevar collided with Ryan Preece in a dramatic and costly crash that turned the Würth 400 upside down with just under 50 laps to go. As both drivers fought hard for a top finish, a critical sequence of misjudgments resulted in a wreck that knocked Preece out of the race and left Hocevar’s debut pole win in shambles, creating a wave of tension and debate throughout the paddock.
Ryan Preece, who had been running as high as second and eagerly chasing his first NASCAR Cup Series win, made an aggressive call to pit early along with his RFK Racing No. 60 crew, hoping to gain a tire advantage. However, this strategy was foiled by an unexpected caution following Jesse Love’s crash, which left Preece a lap down during his pit stop. As his team scrambled over radio instructions and NASCAR’s officials reviewed their position, it became clear that Preece would not receive the free pass, putting him at a deep disadvantage and setting the stage for what was to come.
After restarting in 20th, Preece’s determination was immediately apparent as he surged ahead, only to be thrust back outside the top 20 after the next caution. The pressure mounted, and disaster struck when Carson Hocevar, who had secured his first career Cup Series pole, made contact during a chaotic restart. Hocevar failed to regain control of his car as he pinched Preece into the outside wall. The collision sent Preece crashing toward the inside, and Cody Ware was caught in the melee as well.
Unable to continue, Preece exited the race visibly frustrated, openly expressing his disappointment in a post-race interview.
I think I know who it was… I think it was the 77,
Preece told Fox Sports soon after being checked at the infield care center.
It’s alright. He just seems to be proving me right over and over again, so really fast race car. Unlucky on the pit cycle, coming back through and just got ran into the fence by somebody who has no respect for his equipment and any other driver out there. He’ll have his day.
Carson Hocevar did not avoid responsibility for his role in the crash. After the race, he offered an apology, acknowledging the misjudgment that led to the costly collision for both teams.
(I) apologize to him and his guys,
Hocevar stated.
Same with my guys, right? Just got in there and started to slide up and he got to the right rear. I was already crossing somebody’s wake and got tight from him (Preece) on my door and the car in front. I’m out of the gas and have wheel. I just didn’t predict to be in that spot to panic or have to change directions. I just didn’t predict that he would get there, if I’m being honest.
Carson Hocevar ultimately finished 24th, a disappointing outcome given his performance earlier in the race, while Ryan Preece suffered most, ending his day in 29th position. The incident not only derailed each driver’s efforts but also sparked debate about aggressive driving, respect on the track, and the fine margins that separate triumph from disaster in NASCAR. As teams regroup and tensions linger, Texas now stands as a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change, leaving competitors and fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
