CARSON HOCEVAR – YOUNG’S MOTORSPORTS PHOTO
CARSON HOCEVAR WILL RUN ALL THREE SERIES RACES THIS WEEKEND AT DAYTONA
Young’s Motorsports confirmed yesterday that NASCAR Cup Series standout Carson Hocevar will pilot the team’s No. 42 Chevrolet in the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season opener, the United Rentals 300 at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway, on Saturday, February 14.
Hocevar, 23, will make a one-race appearance with the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization at the iconic 2.5-mile superspeedway, with Zeigler Automotive Group serving as the primary marketing partner of the No. 42 Chevrolet. “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. “I’m thankful to Zeigler Automotive Group for their support and looking forward to the challenge.” The United Rentals 300 will mark Hocevar’s inaugural NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at the “World Center of Racing” and just his ninth career appearance at Daytona International Speedway, coming one day before he competes in his third Daytona 500.
Industry veteran Andrew Abbott will serve as crew chief for the No. 42 Chevrolet for the 120-lap contest on Saturday evening. Young’s Motorsports team principal Tyler Young believes Hocevar’s addition provides valuable experience to the organization as it opens its third season of NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series competition. “Carson brings a lot of experience for a young driver, especially at the Cup Series level,” said Tyler Young.
The 23-year-old is also entered in the NASCAR Truck Series race at Daytona International Speedway. He’ll race the No. 77 on Friday, February 13th. The truck will have sponsorship from IKEA and Best Buy. The No. 77 truck will be fielded by Spire Motorsports. “Ultimately, it’s super cool to represent two major brands that I’m familiar with and have strong connections to the NASCAR fan base,” said Hocevar. Hocevar added, “I’ve enjoyed watching the Spire Motorsports trucks there the last two years, and I’m excited to be part of it now.”
A native of Portage, Michigan, Hocevar brings experience across NASCAR’s national touring divisions, including the Cup Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.
The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year has established himself as one of the sport’s most versatile young competitors while continuing to compete full-time at NASCAR’s highest level.