The NASCAR scene is buzzing with calls for the return of the ‘bad boys’ of racing, following the rapid ascension and controversial tactics of newcomer Carson Hocevar. This appeal is led by none other than Tony Stewart’s former driver, who believes the sport needs more aggressive personalities to regain its former popularity.
Stirring up memories of a bygone era, the embattled rivalry of Tony Stewart and Joey Logano made headlines back in 2013. Stewart, irate after a contentious race at Auto Club Speedway, lambasted Logano as a “little rich kid” who needed to be taught a lesson. The incident added fuel to the fire as Logano was Stewart’s replacement at Joe Gibbs Racing, following Stewart’s move to Stewart-Haas Racing. However, such high-octane drama has been conspicuously absent from recent NASCAR seasons – until Carson Hocevar’s unexpected rise.
The 2024 Rookie of the Year, Hocevar has proven he’s not afraid to ruffle feathers, showcasing his aggressive racing tactics at Atlanta. From trading paint with Rowdy to bumping Ryan Blaney and virtually knocking Christopher Bell out of the race, Hocevar’s audacious maneuvers have earned him the label of NASCAR’s next villain. Yet, surprisingly, this newfound notoriety has been met with approval from both fans and drivers, who relish the return of such fiery competition.
NASCAR’s popularity has taken a hit in recent years, with disappointing viewer numbers and a controversial previous season. Joey Logano’s championship win, with an average finish of 17.1 – a historical low for a champion – triggered an outcry from fans demanding change. However, NASCAR’s attempts to globalize the sport and introduce more international venues have yet to yield the desired results.
In an interview with The Athletic, Noah Gragson, a former Stewart-Haas Racing driver, suggested that the sport needs more drivers like Hocevar – drivers unafraid to show their personality and take aggressive risks on the track. Gragson also criticized the current multi-sponsorship model, arguing that it stifles drivers’ personalities and makes them less relatable to the audience.
However, the path of a NASCAR ‘bad boy’ isn’t without its challenges. Hocevar’s mentor, Ross Chastain, previously filled this role, frequently clashing with veterans like Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, and Chase Elliott. Yet, according to Gragson, Chastain’s persona has mellowed since 2023, leaving the door wide open for a new antagonist.
Even as many rally around Hocevar’s bold tactics, seasoned drivers like Kyle Larson advise caution. While Larson appreciates Hocevar’s aggression, he warns against ruffling the feathers of the seasoned veterans, as they can make a young driver’s career significantly harder.
As we look ahead, it remains to be seen whether Hocevar will continue to stir the pot or dial down his aggression. One thing is certain, however: his tactics have sparked a much-needed conversation about the future direction of NASCAR. Whether you love him or hate him, Hocevar’s audacious style is making waves and reigniting interest in the sport. His continued rise could just be the adrenaline shot NASCAR needs to win back its audience.