On February 21, two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch secured his third straight NASCAR Truck Series win at EchoPark Speedway, with teammate Carson Hocevar playing a crucial role. Busch, driving Spire Motorsports’ #7 Chevrolet, regained the lead in the final seven laps thanks to a well-timed push from Hocevar, ultimately claiming his ninth career win at this venue and marking his 68th Truck Series victory.
During the race’s closing moments, Hocevar fully embraced his role as a teammate, acting to control the pace and protect their positions in the limited time remaining. This collaboration helped Busch maintain the lead and cross the finish line first.
How Hocevar’s Role Shaped the Race’s Final Laps
Busch shared insights about Hocevar’s influence during a post-race interview with FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass. He described how Hocevar acted as a “wingman,” strategically manipulating airflow and pace to help both drivers stay competitive. Busch explained,
“Great teammate I got today, and then in stage two, there was a chance there where Hocevar was in front of me, and he started kind of playing the air a little bit, and I was kind of like, okay, this is good. I’m impressed, you know. I got you, and I pushed him, and we made our way.” — Kyle Busch, NASCAR Driver
“We started ratcheting ourselves back forward. So that was really good, being teammates, and then there at the end he was back to being my wingman and, you know, keeping us in, uh, pace to control the lane and pace to win the race.” — Kyle Busch, NASCAR Driver
This team-oriented effort allowed Busch to retake and hold the lead while Hocevar managed the race dynamics to prevent competitors from gaining an advantage.
Spire Motorsports Captures a One-Two Finish
Carson Hocevar, a full-time driver in the Cup Series for Spire Motorsports, finished second, completing an impressive 1-2 team result at EchoPark Speedway. Their combined performance reinforced the strength of Spire Motorsports in this season’s early NASCAR Truck Series contests.
Following the race, both drivers celebrated their accomplishment, with Hocevar joining Busch in a burnout near the start-finish line and sharing a high-five through the window netting. Reflecting on Hocevar’s help, Busch said,
“Had a great teammate [Hocevar] behind me and have to give credit where credit is due. Early on was a little worried he wasn’t helping but there at the end he was right there … definitely made it a whole lot easier.” — Kyle Busch, NASCAR Driver
What’s Next for Busch and Hocevar at EchoPark Speedway
With this win, Kyle Busch not only extended his record at EchoPark Speedway but also demonstrated the critical role strong teamwork plays in NASCAR racing success. The collaboration between Busch and Hocevar is expected to energize Spire Motorsports’ efforts as the NASCAR season progresses.
Fans can catch Kyle Busch and Carson Hocevar competing again at the second NASCAR Cup Series race of the season at EchoPark Speedway, scheduled for Sunday at 3 pm ET, where their partnership could continue to influence race outcomes.
Kyle Busch on the help from Carson Hocevar and working with him throughout the truck race on the way to victory. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/OhaaYoVsiV
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 22, 2026
