Spire Motorsports suspends Carson Hocevar, parking him for NASCAR finale

Spire Motorsports has suspended driver Carson Hocevar for the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway. The team, not NASCAR, made the decision to park Hocevar for one race due to his controversial behavior throughout the season. Controversy has followed Hocevar, who intentionally brake-checked Austin Cindric multiple times at Martinsville, causing damage to Cindric's car.

Hocevar later claimed the incidents were "just having fun." He also spun out mid-race in a questionable moment, leading rivals to suspect he was doing it intentionally. Spire Motorsports' team owner Jeff Dickerson explained that this decision involved many variables and had a ripple effect across the organization. He emphasized that the issue is about respect and integrity, not money or points.

The team believes in Carson's love and support but acknowledges that his actions at Martinsville didn't meet their standards for drivers. As a result, Hocevar fell from tenth to 12th in the championship standings at Martinsville and could fall further down the Chase standings if he misses Homestead. Justin Haley, a former Spire Cup racer, will take Hocevar's spot in the No. 77 Chevrolet for the finale.

Hocevar has apologized for his actions, stating that it was an embarrassing day for him and that he let down his team, sponsors, and fans. He expressed his desire to return in 2027 and compete as a better driver, competitor, and teammate. Hocevar has made headlines and enemies throughout the season, including a recent incident at Martinsville where he was criticized by NASCAR Hall of Famers Jeff Burton and Dale Jarrett for his flippant attitude post-race.