Short track action might've gone too far, and NASCAR is yet to deliver the verdict.
Martinsville is known for being a bit extreme when it comes to contact between drivers. As if short-track action isn't already abundant, NASCAR's new short-track package particularly elevates the tension. Usually, the drivers attribute these minor scrapes and contacts to racing incidents, but it seems like Carson Hocevar stepped beyond the acceptable boundaries of action.
In multiple videos floating on social media, wherein experts are adding their opinion, it is visible that Carson Hocevar was apparently brake checking Austin Cindric. Now, the videos are taken from the live feed, and the SMT data is not available. However, the movements of Hocevar's car seem to show some clear intent behind the constant brake checking and contact. As a result of the sustained damage to his front bumper, Austin Cindric was unable to finish his race. Cindric was trying to pass Hocevar in this case, but he was stuck in a constant loop of bumper car fighting.
Hocevar denies intent as he tries to joke it off
For now, NASCAR had not released a statement regarding Carson Hocevar's actions. The race control has access to all the data from Cindric and Hocevar's cars. In this scenario, only they can decide if Hocevar was the true culprit. Until their verdict arrived, people will keep spinning their own stories.
Meanwhile, Carson Hocevar did not accept any responsibility in ending Cindric's race. "No, I mean, I got fully throttled here in the spring, and I just think it's Martinsville. I had a lot of fun, and I think I and Austin have raced each other really well, or at least I've been pointed out to him a lot—his cars have been really fast. So, no, I just think that's just Martinsville, and I think we were just having fun," Hocevar replied when questioned by the media.
Some people have also reported that instead of brake checking, the issue might've come from gear shifting instead. Reportedly, some other drivers were having issues while shifting gears. Other users also report that it's natural to use some dirty tactics against other drivers. Hence, Hocevar should be excused of any criticism that comes his way.
In any scenario, an official statement from NASCAR is duly required. The issue is not about what is right or wrong; it is about the image that NASCAR racing has. Many among the viewers are questioning NASCAR's preferential treatment to Hocevar. As such, an official notice for this incident will clarify the rumors.