Carson Hocevar’s NASCAR breakthrough season may finally be on the horizon as the 2026 campaign approaches, following a dramatic upset at the Bill Bigley Sr. Memorial 128 in Florida. At Freedom Factory, George Gorham Jr. stunned the field by defeating established NASCAR names including Ty Majeski and the up-and-coming Hocevar, adding fresh intrigue and anticipation to the future of the series.
George Gorham Jr. Scores Upset Victory at the Freedom Factory
The Bill Bigley Sr. Memorial 128 delivered a spectacle for fans and drivers alike, with George Gorham Jr. and his No. 10 team overcoming a tough field packed with top-tier talent. Neither Ty Majeski, known as a NASCAR Truck Series champion, nor Cup Series competitor Carson Hocevar were able to claim the trophy this time. Instead, Gorham broke away from the field, finishing eight seconds ahead of Majeski and twelve ahead of Hocevar, a commanding performance that earned him a $30,000 winner’s prize.
In a vibrant post-race celebration, the magnitude of the achievement was clear. Gorham’s win resonated not only for himself but also for his family, crew, and the many grassroots racers who compete alongside and sometimes against NASCAR professionals during the series’ off-season.
“This is a dream come true,”
Gorham declared, overflowing with emotion, as he addressed the crowd via Racing America. He emphasized the effort and dedication required of his entire team, all of whom juggle full-time jobs and stretch their resources to compete at this level.
“All my guys have got full-time jobs. We ain’t no big team. We spend every dollar we’ve got to do this. I can’t thank Ricky and his crew enough for putting on these races. Ty Majeski, Hocevar, all of them for coming down. My brother-in-law Mario, Vince, Lamar, my wife Michelle. My father-in-law would be so proud. He’s up in heaven. This is for him right here. This is the best thing going.”
The unique environment at Freedom Factory, a track owned by ARCA personality Cleetus McFarland, amplifies the challenge and excitement of the annual late-season showdowns. The Bigley Memorial, now in its tenth year, continues to draw a diverse lineup, reflecting both the community’s passion for racing and the bridge between short-track regulars and national stars.
Outlook for Carson Hocevar’s Breakthrough NASCAR Season
Although Carson Hocevar did not capture the victory in the Bill Bigley Sr. Memorial 128, the signs point to a pivotal NASCAR breakthrough season ahead. Throughout the 2025 schedule, Hocevar showed flashes of potential and frequently appeared poised for his first Cup Series win. While that milestone remained just out of reach, optimism within Spire Motorsports and among NASCAR observers is higher than ever as 2026 approaches.
This coming year brings new developments for Spire. Daniel Suárez is joining the organization in the No. 7 car, following the team’s decision to move on from Justin Haley. Alongside Hocevar, this new dynamic positions Spire as a team to watch, especially considering the challenges of organizational expansion without sacrificing on-track performance. Unlike several other growing teams, such as RFK Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and 23XI Racing—each of whom took steps backward during their own expansions—Spire has managed to improve while growing its footprint.
Hocevar’s assertive driving style and reputation as one of the sport’s next big personalities make him a focal point for fans and competitors alike. His challenge for the 2026 season will be to maintain his aggression, channel his energetic approach, and avoid unnecessary controversy. If he can strike this balance, Hocevar’s breakthrough and the fulfillment of his high expectations may well be realized.
What the Season Means for NASCAR’s Emerging Stars
The latest events illustrate a changing NASCAR landscape, one that values new talent and rewards those who seize big moments. George Gorham Jr.’s victory serves as encouragement for drivers aspiring to challenge established names, while Carson Hocevar’s continued growth keeps anticipation high for the coming season. As Hocevar prepares for what could be his defining year, fans and teams across the sport will be watching closely to see if he can deliver the long-awaited NASCAR breakthrough season.
George Gorham Jr runs away from the field to win the 10th annual @uaranational Bill Bigley Sr Memorial 128 at the Freedom Factory over @TyMajeski and @CarsonHocevar.
Subscribers can watch the replay later tonight on https://t.co/S4MfBeLfHI pic.twitter.com/Ji4OrTBHCg
— Racing America (@RacingAmerica) November 30, 2025
