Despite carving out a reputation as a modern-day Dale Earnhardt in NASCAR circles, Carson Hocevar is still chasing that elusive first win in his second full-time Cup season. But could Chicago be the turning point for the 22-year-old?
The Michigan native heads into the weekend with renewed confidence and a fearless mindset. His Spire Motorsports Chevrolet has shown promise, most notably when he secured a brilliant pole at Texas Motor Speedway, posting the second-fastest lap of the Next Gen era at 28.175 seconds.
Now, as the series shifts from Atlanta’s chaos to the unforgiving corners of the Windy City, Hocevar brings not just speed but poise. Ahead of the high-stakes race, he reflected on his experience in Mexico City, acknowledging the intricacies of street circuits while embracing the challenge that lies ahead.
‘So Different’ — Carson Hocevar Drops a Candid Confession About Weather Challenges in Chicago
Besides the fearsome field, rain has become the new antagonist in Chicago. In both previous editions of the Grant Park events, inclement weather disrupted proceedings, triggering rain delays, shortening races, and giving way to the infamous wet-weather tires.
Despite the unpredictable conditions, both events were blockbusters. Now, as the field gears up for another downtown showdown, Hocevar offered a candid take on weather challenges.
During his recent exclusive to Sirius XM NASCAR Radio, the show’s host asked Hocevar, “A little damp out there. How well prepared are you for that?”
Citing his past struggles, the driver of the No. 77 Chevy responded with a candid yet humorous confession, “Uh, sure. I like running in the rain at Mexico, but Chicago is so different. I don’t really even remember running in the rain because my windshield wiper wasn’t working. So I was afraid it would stop raining just so I could see.”
For a field bred on ovals, the 2.14-mile technical road circuit itself offers a daunting challenge; add soaking rains to the equation, and it becomes a script for chaos.
While the more experienced Shane van Gisbergen conquered the circuit during its inaugural event, followed by Alex Bowman last year, it remains an overwhelming test for a young racer like Hocevar, who is still learning the fundamentals.
In a not surprising turn of events, @NASCAR is in Chicago and it’s pouring. 🌧️ pic.twitter.com/bISs3qEKIp
— Kaulig Racing (@KauligRacing) July 4, 2025
But it will be history if he can summon the will and pull off the near impossible. As of now, the 22-year-old is 20th in the playoff picture with 62 below the cutline.
The rain gods have already unleashed their fury, and they might not be done yet. With a 50% chance of thunderstorms by Sunday evening (according to National Weather Service sources), the chaos could be far from over.