Carson Hocevar, a native of Portage, Michigan and current Spire Motorsports driver, has purchased his hometown Chili’s restaurant after learning it was at risk of being demolished to make way for a Kroger gas station. The move comes as Kroger, a major retail corporation valued at $43.94 billion according to Forbes, had plans that threatened the restaurant’s existence, prompting immediate action from Hocevar.
The situation first came to Hocevar’s attention when 107.7 RKR, a local radio station, posted about Kroger’s intentions for the Chili’s location in Portage. After seeing the post, Hocevar inquired and discovered that the restaurant was, in fact, still operating. Motivated by the chance to preserve a local landmark close to his roots, Hocevar decided to intervene personally.
Hocevar Shares News of Chili’s Purchase on Social Media
At just 22 years old and in the midst of his sophomore NASCAR Cup Series season, Hocevar used his Facebook account to share the news of his investment and clarify the circumstances that drove his decision.
“I BOUGHT MY HOMETOWN CHILI’S LOCATION IN PORTAGE MICHIGAN!!! I am excited to announce after seeing this post I made a call and got ahold of my friends at Chili’s. I wanted to be able to save this location as it’s very close to home. It shocked me to find out the folks at 107.7 RKR had no base to their claims and this location was open.”
– Carson Hocevar, NASCAR Driver
“I figured it would be worthy investment to still invest and so I am proud to announce that I bought this Chili’s location located in my home town. Hope everyone can come in and grab a bite to eat!,” he added.
– Carson Hocevar, NASCAR Driver
This surprise purchase not only preserves a notable restaurant for the Portage community but also stands as a personal milestone for Hocevar, who has remained strongly connected to his hometown despite competing at the highest levels of NASCAR.
Professional Challenges Amid Chic’s Rescue
Even as Hocevar gains attention for saving the Chili’s location, he has been navigating professional controversy during the current Cup Series season. He addressed criticism regarding his approach to race preparation and work ethic, defending his performance style and asserting that he has his own effective strategies. The racing community has observed Hocevar’s determination both on and off the track, as he continues to establish his standing in a competitive sophomore year.
Details Behind Hocevar’s Recent $50,000 NASCAR Fine
Hocevar’s season also saw recent turbulence after he incurred a $50,000 fine from NASCAR following the Hollywood Casino 400 race at Kansas Speedway. The penalty took many fans and observers by surprise, and its cause was soon clarified by NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass.
“NASCAR has fined Carson Hocevar $50,000 for what NASCAR termed as a behavioral infraction. After he spun and came to a stop at Kansas and safety workers had gotten to his car, he revved and spun his tires as he tried to rejoin the field,” he wrote.
– Bob Pockrass, NASCAR Reporter
This action led to Hocevar finishing in 29th place, two laps behind, after starting the race in the sixth position—an outcome marking a difficult setback after what had begun as a promising event for the Spire Motorsports driver. In the current season, Hocevar is still pursuing his first victory, though he recently came close with a strong showing at the Bristol Motor Speedway playoff race. During that event, he led with just three laps remaining, but saw his lead slip to Christopher Bell and ultimately finished seventh following multiple exchanges with Zane Smith.
Community Impact and Looking Ahead for Hocevar and Portage
Carson Hocevar’s acquisition of the Portage Chili’s not only saves a familiar dining spot for local residents, but also highlights how public figures can use their influence for direct community benefit. As he continues his race season, facing both setbacks and strong performances, Hocevar’s recent actions off the track have drawn praise for their local impact, standing in contrast to the corporate decisions of larger entities like Kroger.
The purchase is expected to reassure the Portage community that their beloved Chili’s location will remain, thanks to a hometown advocate willing to step forward when needed. Hocevar’s efforts may inspire others to support vital landmarks in their own towns, as he continues striving for success both as a driver and involved citizen.
