Young’s Motorsports announced that NASCAR Cup Series driver Carson Hocevar will pilot the team’s No. 42 Chevrolet in the forthcoming 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series opener, the United Rentals 300, at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 14. This event marks Hocevar’s NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut at the famed 2.5-mile superspeedway.
The 23-year-old from Portage, Michigan, is slated for a one-race appearance with the Mooresville, North Carolina-based team, with Zeigler Automotive Group as the primary marketing partner for the No. 42 car. Hocevar’s participation is part of a triple-race schedule during Speedweeks, underscoring his busy campaign at Daytona.
Hocevar Highlights the Unique Challenge of Daytona
Reflecting on the opportunity, Hocevar expressed enthusiasm about racing at Daytona, a venue renowned for its fierce competition and high stakes. He emphasized the critical nature of preparation and execution alongside speed on superspeedways.
“Any time you get the opportunity to race at Daytona, it’s special,”
said Hocevar.
“I’m excited for the chance to race with Young’s Motorsports in the United Rentals 300. Superspeedway racing is always intense, and Daytona is a place where preparation and execution matter just as much as speed.”
?Carson Hocevar, NASCAR Driver
Additionally, Hocevar acknowledged the support of Zeigler Automotive Group, the team’s partner for the race.
“I’m thankful to Zeigler Automotive Group for their support and looking forward to the challenge.”
?Carson Hocevar, NASCAR Driver
Experience and Versatility Drive Hocevar’s Campaign
The United Rentals 300 will be Hocevar’s first NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at Daytona, although it will be his ninth overall appearance at this landmark track. At just 23, he has already competed across NASCAR’s top national touring divisions, including the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. His full-time role in the Cup Series, where he earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2024, showcases his emerging status among the sport’s promising young talents.
During Speedweeks, Hocevar will also race in two additional events: the Fresh from Florida 250 in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series on Friday, February 13, and the Daytona 500 with Spire Motorsports on Sunday, February 15. This demanding schedule highlights his broad skill set and endurance as a competitor.
Veteran Crew Chief Andrew Abbott to Lead No. 42 Chevrolet
Young’s Motorsports has tapped industry veteran Andrew Abbott to serve as crew chief for Hocevar in the 120-lap United Rentals 300. Abbott’s extensive experience is expected to help the team optimize its strategy and performance for the race.
Zeigler Automotive Group Strengthens Partnership
Zeigler Automotive Group, a prominent privately owned dealer network with 88 franchises across four Midwestern states, has solidified its involvement with Young’s Motorsports for this event. Headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Zeigler is recognized as one of the nation’s top employers and emphasizes supporting driven individuals in motorsports.
“At Zeigler, we believe in backing individuals who show relentless drive and commitment to excellence,”
said Aaron Zeigler, President and CEO of Zeigler Automotive Group and Zeigler Racing.
“Carson embodies that mindset every time he gets behind the wheel, and sponsoring him at Daytona was an easy decision. We’re proud to see the Zeigler No. 42 take the track with Young’s Motorsports at the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race.”
?Aaron Zeigler, CEO
Team Principal Tyler Young Emphasizes Hocevar’s Value
Tyler Young, team principal of Young’s Motorsports, highlighted the advantage Hocevar brings to the team, particularly drawing on his high-level experience in NASCAR’s Cup Series. Young pointed out the demanding nature of Daytona as a venue where focus on discipline and communication is essential.
“Carson brings a lot of experience for a young driver, especially at the Cup Series level,”
stated Tyler Young.
“Daytona is a race where discipline, communication, and execution are critical, and having someone with his background and aggression in the car is an asset for our team. We’re thankful to Zeigler Automotive Group and all of our partners for their support and look forward to kicking off the season with a solid effort.”
?Tyler Young, Team Principal
Fan Engagement and Collector Community Involvement
Beyond the track, Hocevar will engage with fans in a signing session on Friday, February 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time at Luckiest Man Sports Cards in Orange Park, Florida. Founded in 2022, the store focuses on making trading card collecting accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
This appearance also reflects Hocevar’s personal connection to the collector community through his family’s ownership of Scott’s Sports Cards, Coins & Jewelry in his hometown of Portage.
Details About the United Rentals 300 and Broadcast Information
The United Rentals 300 is the opening race of the 33-event NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series schedule for 2026. The race covers 120 laps, totaling 300 miles at Daytona’s renowned superspeedway.
Practice for the event is scheduled for Friday, February 13, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:20 p.m., followed by qualifying on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. The 38-car field will take the green flag shortly after 5:00 p.m. on February 14, with live coverage broadcast on The CW Network, Motor Racing Network (radio), and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.
Looking Ahead to a Competitive Season Season Kickoff
Carson Hocevar’s participation in the Daytona opener with Young’s Motorsports signals a proactive start to the 2026 season for both driver and team. His experience and multi-series involvement during Speedweeks at Daytona should enhance his performance and the team’s prospects in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
With steadfast support from Zeigler Automotive Group and strategic leadership from crew chief Andrew Abbott, Young’s Motorsports is poised to leverage Hocevar’s talent to make a strong impact in the opening race and beyond.
