Zane Smith Hit Carson Hocevar After Phoenix. NASCAR’s Hauler Meeting Has Expired.

Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar engaged in a high-profile incident following the Freeway Insurance 500 at Phoenix Raceway. This occurrence marks their second significant clash since the summer, with the first taking place at Chicagoland Speedway in July. NASCAR had already investigated the earlier incident and issued no penalties.

The recent event occurred during a two-tire call, when Smith's No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford struck Hocevar's No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet after the checkered flag. In-car footage captured the entire incident, showing Smith had no intention of racing during the moment. Both drivers finished the race on the lead lap, with Hocevar securing 12th place and Smith ending up in 15th position.

Despite the incident, NASCAR hasn't issued a statement on what triggered Smith's action in the closing laps. The rivalry between these two drivers has its roots in August 2025 at Iowa Speedway, where Hocevar lost control of his car, leading to a collision with Smith's vehicle and a subsequent encounter with the SAFER barrier. The situation escalated further when Smith's crew chief, Ryan Bergenty, confronted Hocevar after the race.

Smith has publicly expressed his dislike for Hocevar, stating he "just doesn't like him as a human" and even suggesting they might require couples counseling. Hocevar, on the other hand, had never been called to the hauler after getting wrecked before and humorously suggested they might need couples counseling. The incident has significant implications for the Chase standings, with Hocevar currently ranked 11th among the 16 Chase drivers and Smith trailing behind at 26th place.

The grudge between the drivers has now reached a boiling point, and the outcome of the upcoming Talladega 500 will likely determine the trajectory of their relationship and the potential impact on the championship race.