Carson Hocevar reignited controversy when he collided with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. during the NASCAR Cup Series race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City on Sunday. This clash follows an earlier incident in Nashville a few weeks ago, where Hocevar wrecked Stenhouse Jr., prompting warnings from the NASCAR community that retaliation was likely. The ongoing conflict between the drivers intensified during this event, fueling disappointment and frustration among fans watching the race.
Details of the Racing Collision and Immediate Fallout
On Lap 90 of the race, Hocevar, piloting the No. 77 car, made contact with the rear of Stenhouse Jr.’s vehicle, causing Stenhouse to spin and lose positions. At the time, Stenhouse was on the lead lap and running in 23rd place but ultimately finished 27th after the incident. Hocevar ended the race in 34th place. The live broadcast from Amazon Prime Video captured Stenhouse approaching Hocevar’s Camaro and exchanging heated words, with Stenhouse warning Hocevar,
“I’m gonna beat your ass. You’re a lap down, you got nothing to do, why’d you run right into me?”
—Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
Though Hocevar attempted to apologize and provide an explanation, the confrontation escalated as Stenhouse Jr. responded, I don’t give a damn! and threatened a physical fight once back in the United States. The tension between the two drivers was palpable, and the fans quickly reacted to the clash on social media.
Fan Reactions Highlight Divided Opinions on the Rivalry
The NASCAR fanbase expressed strong opinions about the ongoing rivalry, often siding against Stenhouse Jr. Some fans criticized his performance and demeanor, referencing the nickname “Wrecky Spinhouse” given to him by two-time Cup Series champion Kyle Busch. On the social platform X, one fan stated,
“Wrecky is trash. 99% of the time he is not a factor.”
Another remarked,
“Well deserved, but I have a problem with it coming from Ricky. There’s a reason why they call him Wrecky Spinhouse, and it’s not usually him that suffers from it.”
Other comments poked fun at both drivers, mocking Stenhouse Jr.’s aggressive response and Hocevar’s apologetic tone. One fan sarcastically wrote, Give Ricky a tampon. while another teased,
“Hocevar sounding like he’s gonna cry lmao.”
This mix of mockery and criticism reflects the divided sentiment among NASCAR supporters regarding the conflict and driver behavior.
Context of Past Incidents and Potential Consequences
Adding to the tension is Stenhouse Jr.’s recent involvement in a physical fight with Kyle Busch following the 2024 All-Star Race, which resulted in a $75,000 fine. Given this history, fans and commentators are closely watching to see if he will temper his behavior or escalate his threats toward Hocevar in future events. Hocevar explained that he lost control when he got locked up in the marbles on the track, which might have warranted more understanding from Stenhouse Jr.
One fan noted,
“At least he admitted the fuck up. But that’s all there is to say.”
This ongoing rivalry between Carson Hocevar and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. has captured the attention of the NASCAR community, highlighting intense emotions and competitive friction that could influence upcoming races and driver relations.
