Carson Hocevar criticized NASCAR Truck Series decisions at Pocono Raceway on Friday after a controversial penalty cost him a shot at victory, expressing frustration towards series officials and the managing director in a heated radio exchange. The incident, which unfolded during a crucial late restart, has intensified scrutiny over NASCAR’s rule enforcement as Hocevar and his team voiced clear objections to the ruling.
Penalty at Pocono Sparks Outrage from Hocevar
Fresh off a recent $50,000 fine and mandatory sensitivity training stemming from remarks about Mexico, 22-year-old Carson Hocevar became embroiled in another controversy at Pocono. Competing in the No. 7 Spire Motorsports truck, Hocevar was running third during a restart with 19 laps to go, closely behind leader Corey Heim at The Tricky Triangle.
As the green flag approached, misfortune struck the No. 11 truck when it suffered a flat right-rear tire, forcing the driver to the rear of the field and giving Layne Riggs in the No. 34—second on the grid and inside row—control of the restart. This handover of control was highlighted by commentator Kevin Harvick on Fox, who clarified the restart order during the live broadcast.
NASCAR initially placed the restart under review but soon after handed down a penalty to Hocevar’s No. 7 truck. Hocevar immediately voiced disagreement over the radio, urging his team to protest the decision and expressing disbelief at the ruling.
“Yes sir, series is becoming a joke, copy,”
—Hocevar’s spotter, over the radio.
Direct Criticism of NASCAR Leadership
Tension continued as Hocevar directly referenced Seth Kramlich, the Truck Series Managing Director, in a sarcastic remark over the team radio. Despite pushing through the remaining laps, Hocevar finished 13th, while Layne Riggs ultimately secured the race win. The frustrating outcome, coupled with his disagreement with the penalty, only seemed to deepen Hocevar’s disappointment.
“Can’t help that somebody doesn’t know the rules.”
—Carson Hocevar, driver
Observers noted that according to NASCAR’s ruling, Hocevar was deemed at fault regarding the restart procedure, despite his claims over the radio. The result left questions lingering about the consistency and clarity of the Truck Series’ rules and their enforcement.
Recent Incidents Add Fuel to Hocevar’s Frustration
This incident arrives on the heels of Hocevar’s prior controversy during a Twitch stream, where comments directed at Mexico led to financial and disciplinary repercussions. At Pocono, his latest dispute with the NASCAR Truck Series further highlights ongoing tension between Hocevar and sporting authorities.
The sharp criticism directed at key officials, as well as mention of series leadership and race events by Fox’s Kevin Harvick, underscores a growing sense of unrest among drivers regarding rule interpretation and enforcement.
Looking ahead, how NASCAR handles both the lingering concerns and the public frustrations voiced by drivers like Hocevar may play a crucial role in the series’ credibility and driver relations going forward.
