Unexpected twists and turns are part of the NASCAR game. Yesterday’s showdown at Bristol Motor Speedway brought to light a surprising development. Carson Hocevar, the protégé of Dale Earnhardt Jr stepped into the limelight. Filling in for Noah Gragson in the #42 Chevrolet yet again. Hocevar found himself in the top positions in the later stages of the race. However, this led to frustration among other drivers, as they had to battle out the #42 car near the front.

During a post-race interview, Hocevar opened up about how the race went for him. He explained how he was struggling with the car throughout the race. He also candidly admitted that he might regret a decision or two during the race.

Dale Earnhardt Jr and his protégé exhibited stronger form at Bristol

Dale Earnhardt Jr ran the Xfinity race at Bristol the other night. Needless to say, he impressed everybody, even though he was getting behind the wheel after a long time. However, his race ended abruptly after his car caught fire. Carson Hocevar, a rising star in NASCAR, found himself behind the wheel of the #42 Chevrolet for Legacy Motor Club, taking over from the departed Noah Gragson. In just his fourth NASCAR Cup Series start, Hocevar made waves, nearly breaking into the top 10 at Bristol Motor Speedway.

However, Hocevar’s impressive performance came with its own set of challenges. The unfamiliar sight of the #42 Chevrolet running upfront frustrated a few drivers, seeing it in such a competitive position. The situation took an unfortunate turn when Hocevar allowed Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the #47 Chevrolet to pass, unwittingly relinquishing a potential top-10 finish.

“I asked for an adjustment, but I think we had a really big piece like the Bass Pro Shop Banner get on our nose and I got super loose,” said Hocevar when asked if he needed something extra. “So that just was the difference, honestly. I thought I had it loosely up at the beginning, but honestly, it was just really loose so my arms have arm pump like I just rode a dirt bike or something.”

“I was holding on there and I was holding a lot of guys up. But at the same time, they were starting to get impatient with me, you know. They’re not used to seeing the #42 upfront… racing around me so they’re just kind of trying to like get me out of the way, you know,” he added. “Brad [Keselowski] ran me really clean, but the #47 needed points. And I was aware of that, so being a Chevy team I tried to let him go and then I was like what position was that? Like that was for 10. Dang it.”

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Carson Hocevar’s journey in the 2023 season has been nothing short of impressive. In just his fourth NASCAR Cup Series start, he has consistently showcased his talent. His performance at Bristol has garnered attention, leaving fans and insiders alike curious about his future plans.

Hocevar could end up racing full-time in the Cup Series sooner rather than later

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As the 20-year-old driver continues to break out during the season, he hints at a potential move to the Cup Series. The young Michigan native has dropped hints about his plans for the 2024 season, igniting speculation during the ongoing silly season. Linked to Spire Motorsports in the Cup Series, Hocevar remains tight-lipped about the specifics but acknowledges that his future is taking shape. Whether it’s a full-time stint in the Cup Series or continued growth in other NASCAR divisions, Hocevar’s journey promises to be one worth following.

“I know what I’m gonna do next year,” Hocevar told Frontstretch. “I don’t know if I’m going to be Cup [racing], I can’t say that or anything. Any race I can have in Cup is a good time. Hopefully, I get there, whether that’s next year or five years. But all of these races are gonna add up and help.”

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Carson Hocevar’s unexpected ascent in the NASCAR ranks serves as a testament to his talent and determination. So, do you think he’ll get a Cup ride for next year? or will he take one step at a time? Share your thoughts and predictions with us in the comments.