Carson Hocevar, the 2024 Cup Series Rookie of the Year, is making waves in the racing world – though not in the way anyone would wish. Known for his tendency to collide with rivals, Hocevar has gained notoriety for his reckless driving tactics. His antics have not only unsettled racing veterans like Jimmie Johnson but also led to the deliberate crash of Harrison Burton in Nashville. Many thought the severe penalty from that incident would rein in Hocevar’s aggressive driving. However, the recent race at Atlanta Motor Speedway suggests otherwise.
The Ambetter Health 400 race was a triumph for Ford drivers. Josh Berry and Austin Cindric led the way, with Ryan Blaney not far behind. But trouble stirred on lap 234 when Blaney’s No. 12 Team Penske Ford spun out in a cloud of smoke off Turn 1. Despite Blaney’s best efforts, the car was uncontrollable. A slow-motion replay revealed the instigator: Carson Hocevar.
Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevrolet was seen nudging the No. 12 car, causing Blaney to lose control on the 1.54-mile track. The incident incited another wave of criticism towards the 22-year-old racer. Tim Fedewa, the spotter for the No. 12, expressed his frustration: “I don’t know what we can do about it. We got to race.”
However, the most scathing remarks came from the 2023 Cup Series champion, Ryan Blaney. In a statement relayed by Jonathan Fjeld, Blaney did not hold back: “I told you, 77. Absolute weapon. He’s just a moron. He just runs right in the back of you. He has zero idea of where to bump someone, it’s been the whole race.”
Blaney was not alone in his sentiments. Earlier in the race, two-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch didn’t mince words when discussing Hocevar’s tactics. “Go tell that 77 he’s done that same f—— move ten times. I don’t care if I wreck the whole f—— field, I’m over him. He’s a f—— douchebag, I’m going to wreck his a–.”
Hocevar’s reckless driving and blatant disregard for his fellow racers have undoubtedly cast him in a negative light. It remains to be seen whether Ryan Blaney can recover his lost track position and if Hocevar will heed these warnings or continue to stir the pot with his aggressive driving.