Spire Benches Hocevar for Homestead Finale

Spire Motorsports has suspended Carson Hocevar for the NASCAR Cup Series season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway after his controversial on-track confrontation with Austin Cindric at Martinsville Speedway.

Hocevar repeatedly slowed in front of Cindric during Sunday’s race, resulting in significant damage to the front of Cindric’s No. 2 Team Penske Ford. Cindric was forced to retire and finished 36th, while Hocevar continued in the race.

Radio comments and subsequent data analysis raised questions about whether Hocevar intentionally brake-checked Cindric. Hocevar initially characterized the incident as typical Martinsville racing, saying, “I just think that’s just Martinsville and I think we were just having fun.”

Spire Cites Professionalism and Respect

Spire chose to discipline Hocevar rather than leave the matter entirely to NASCAR. Team co-owner Jeff Dickerson said the decision reflected the organization’s expectations for professionalism and respect.

“The way Carson conducted himself at Martinsville doesn’t meet the standard we set for our drivers, team members or employees, and there are consequences for that,” Dickerson said.

Hocevar apologized after the suspension was announced, admitting that he had crossed the line and let down his team, sponsors and fans. He said he plans to return in 2027 as a better driver, competitor and teammate.

Justin Haley will replace Hocevar in Spire’s No. 77 Chevrolet at Homestead. The team suspension came alongside NASCAR discipline: USA TODAY reported that NASCAR fined Hocevar $100,000 and docked him 25 points for the Martinsville incident.

Sources: Motorsports Tribune, MotorBiscuit, USA TODAY, and The Associated Press via WWMT.