On Friday, NASCAR driver Carson Hocevar welcomed prominent social media influencer iShowSpeed, also known as Darren Jason Watkins Jr., for an exclusive tour of the Daytona International Speedway. The visit offered iShowSpeed an inside look at the famed track and the sport’s unique environment, as shared by NASCAR journalist Steven Taranto on the social media platform X. This interaction marked a notable crossover between NASCAR and digital entertainment, highlighting the growing appeal of the sport to younger audiences.
Darren Jason Watkins Jr., born January 21, 2005, in Cincinnati, Ohio, gained widespread recognition through his energetic YouTube livestreams and gaming content since starting his channel in 2016. Originally focusing on titles like NBA 2K and Fortnite, iShowSpeed later branched out into soccer-themed videos, expressing admiration for soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo. His engaging online presence makes him a compelling figure to introduce to NASCAR’s world.
Details of iShowSpeed’s NASCAR Experience with Hocevar and Track Officials
Steven Taranto posted on social media that iShowSpeed was taking part in the NASCAR Racing Experience, starting with a ride-along before taking the wheel himself. Hocevar, alongside Daytona International Speedway president Frank Kelleher, guided the influencer throughout the day. This opportunity gave iShowSpeed a chance to immerse himself in the atmosphere of NASCAR racing, learning firsthand from both a rising star and track leadership.
“Looks like @ishowspeedsui is doing the NASCAR Racing Experience. He’ll do a ride-along first and then get behind the wheel himself. Carson Hocevar and Daytona president Frank Kelleher showing him the ropes.”
—Steven Taranto, NASCAR Journalist
Carson Hocevar’s Competitive 2025 Season Highlights and Challenges
Carson Hocevar has demonstrated significant growth during the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, driving full-time for Spire Motorsports. In 17 races, he has clocked two top-five finishes and six top-10 placements, with an average finish position of 22.53. He claimed his first career pole position and has led a total of 72 laps this season, showcasing his rising competitiveness despite not yet securing a win.
Among his standout performances was a close second-place finish at the Atlanta race, where he nearly overtook Christopher Bell. Other notable results include a fourth-place at Bowman Gray and strong finishes across various tracks, reflecting his adaptability. While Hocevar has endured setbacks such as four Did Not Finish (DNF) results, his consistent pace and resilience mark him as a promising talent in the Cup Series.
Unexpected Message of Support Boosts Hocevar at Richmond Raceway
Despite some criticism for his aggressive style on the circuit, Carson Hocevar found encouragement during the Richmond Raceway event when Spire Motorsports discovered a heartfelt note left in the track’s infield tunnel. The message simply read, “I love Carson Hocevar,” with a heart symbol, offering an uplifting reminder of fan support amid a season marked by intense on-track battles.
“Hey, (Carson Hocevar). We found a note in the Richmond infield tunnel for you.”
—Spire Motorsports
Throughout the year, Hocevar has faced several confrontations, including a heated exchange with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and a disagreement with teammate Michael McDowell during a race at Watkins Glen. At Richmond, Hocevar both started and finished 15th, continuing to navigate challenges on and off the track alongside his Spire Motorsports team.
Growing Influence of NASCAR and Digital Personalities
Carson Hocevar’s initiative to bring iShowSpeed to Daytona strengthens the link between traditional motorsports and contemporary online influencers. As NASCAR seeks to widen its audience, incorporating personalities like iShowSpeed will likely generate increased interest among younger viewers and expand the sport’s digital presence. Hocevar’s rising stature and interactions with popular influencers suggest a strategic blend of racing talent and media savvy shaping the future of NASCAR engagement.
