Carson Hocevar hosted a special NASCAR Daytona Speedway tour for IShowSpeed, the popular YouTube personality, on Friday. This unique Carson Hocevar NASCAR Daytona Speedway tour brought social media visibility to the sport as Hocevar guided IShowSpeed and highlighted what makes Daytona special.
NASCAR Welcomes IShowSpeed for a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Daytona
Carson Hocevar led IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., through Daytona International Speedway, providing an inside look at the iconic venue. NASCAR journalist Steven Taranto shared footage of the duo exploring the track, emphasizing the collaboration between traditional sports and digital entertainment personalities.
IShowSpeed, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, has built a reputation for high-energy, often dramatic live streams on YouTube after launching his channel in 2016. Rising to viral fame in 2021, he is best known for interactive NBA 2K and Fortnite gaming content, later expanding into soccer-themed videos and showing admiration for figures like Cristiano Ronaldo.
“Looks like @ishowspeedsui is doing the NASCAR Racing Experience. He’ll do a ride-along first and then get behind the wheel himself. Carson Hocevar and Daytona president Frank Kelleher showing him the ropes.” —Steven Taranto, NASCAR Journalist
During the event, IShowSpeed was set to experience both a NASCAR ride-along and the chance to drive a race car himself. In addition to Hocevar, Daytona president Frank Kelleher played a part in introducing the influencer to the intricacies of the speedway, amplifying the day’s significance for all involved.
Carson Hocevar’s Upward Trajectory in the Cup Series
As a full-time Cup Series driver with Spire Motorsports, Carson Hocevar’s 2025 season is marked by consistent progress. In his 17 starts so far, Hocevar has achieved two top-five and six top-10 finishes, with an average finish position of 22.53. His performances show steady growth, underlining both skill and promise.
Hocevar enjoyed a personal milestone this season, securing his first career pole and leading 72 laps, highlighting his strengthening presence in the NASCAR field. While a race win eludes him so far, his reliability and competitiveness have landed him notable race results, including a second-place finish at Atlanta right behind Christopher Bell, and a fourth place at Bowman Gray, demonstrating versatility at various tracks.
Despite recording four DNFs, including incidents and on-track mishaps, Hocevar’s overall results reflect strong adaptation to the Cup Series. The combination of impressive finishes and the ability to run with established drivers sets him apart as a rising talent.
Messages of Support and Clashes on the Track
This season has not been without controversy for Hocevar, whose aggressive driving style has drawn both criticism and support. At Richmond Raceway, Spire Motorsports discovered a heartfelt handwritten note in the infield tunnel simply stating “I love Carson Hocevar,” accompanied by a heart, which the team shared in a moment of encouragement for the young driver.
“Hey, (Carson Hocevar). We found a note in the Richmond infield tunnel for you.” —Spire Motorsports
Throughout the year, Hocevar has been involved in several confrontations, most notably a heated moment with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and a tense on-track altercation with teammate Michael McDowell at Watkins Glen. In Richmond, Hocevar managed a solid race, starting and finishing in 15th place, while McDowell dealt with separate struggles during the event.
The Significance of IShowSpeed’s NASCAR Experience
Carson Hocevar’s NASCAR Daytona Speedway tour with IShowSpeed bridged the gap between motorsports and digital entertainment, drawing fresh eyes to NASCAR and engaging a broader audience. The event showcases NASCAR’s ongoing momentum, Hocevar’s growing stature, and the value of connecting with rising online personalities. As Hocevar continues to build his Cup Series career, moments like this create new opportunities for both NASCAR and its fans.
