Spire suspends Hocevar and gives season finale to Haley
Spire Motorsports has suspended Carson Hocevar for the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway after his actions against Austin Cindric at Martinsville. Justin Haley will take over the car on Sunday. Hocevar acknowledged crossing the line in a statement after initially denying deliberate contact. Team co-owner Jeff Dickerson said the conduct fell below Spire’s expected standards. Hocevar ranks 12th in the season standings.
Sports··Midday
Haley takes the car for Homestead
Spire Motorsports has suspended Carson Hocevar for Sunday’s NASCAR season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Justin Haley will replace him after Hocevar’s on-track actions against Austin Cindric at Martinsville. Cindric’s car was damaged in repeated contact and his race ended. Spire co-owner Jeff Dickerson said Hocevar’s conduct fell short of the standards expected from the organisation’s drivers and employees, while maintaining the team’s support for him.[1], [2]
Hocevar acknowledges crossing the line
Hocevar initially denied deliberately hitting Cindric and described the episode in terms of hard racing at Martinsville. In a social media statement on Tuesday, he acknowledged crossing the line with his actions and letting down his team, sponsors and fans. He said he would support the organisation during the finale and wanted to return next season as a better driver, competitor and teammate.[1], [2]
Spire changes drivers before the final race
Hocevar is in his third full season with Spire and ranks 12th after being eliminated from the championship chase. Haley previously drove for Spire and now races in the truck series for Kaulig Racing. Dickerson said the organisation had chosen to act rather than leave the decision entirely to NASCAR, citing the team’s expectations of respect and professionalism.[1], [2]
