Team parks young driver for final race after on track fights

NASCAR’s three top series conclude their 2026 schedules at Homestead-Miami Speedway this weekend.

Spire Motorsports announced on Tuesday that Carson Hocevar will not drive the No. 77 car in the Nov. 8 season finale. The team suspended the 23-year-old driver after incidents involving his on-track behavior earlier this month.

The suspension follows accusations that Hocevar intentionally spun his car to trigger a caution during the Nov. 1 race at Martinsville. He also became involved in a physical altercation with Austin Cindric during that same event. These events added to a season defined by the driver's aggressive style and several conflicts with competitors.

Spire Motorsports stated that the decision involved multiple variables affecting the entire organization. The team said it was not about money or points, but about maintaining integrity and respect. "Sometimes the right decision for someone you care about hurts in the short term," the team said in a statement.

Justin Haley, a NASCAR veteran and former Spire driver, will take over the No. 77 car for the final race of the year. Hocevar addressed the news in his own statement, describing the suspension as an embarrassing day. He said he crossed the line with his actions and gave owner Jeff Dickerson and the team no choice but to replace him.

Hocevar has built a large following this season due to his charismatic and aggressive driving approach. His career has included several notable incidents, such as a viral brawl at Bristol in September. Despite the controversies, he achieved career milestones this year, including his first Cup Series victory at Talladega on April 26 and his first postseason appearance.

In 35 races this season, Hocevar secured one win and 12 top-10 finishes. He also recorded six top-five results. He enters the final race ranked 12th in the points standings.