“Denny Stole One from Me!” Carson Hocevar Takes Revenge on Denny Hamlin in Brickyard 400 Qualifying

Amidst the controversies over his aggressive racing style, Carson Hocevar has yet again proved he is racing in the top tier because he earned a spot with his pure pace. The No:77 Chevy driver secured the pole for the 2026 Brickyard 400, ahead of veteran teammate Daniel Suarez. He beat championship front-runner Denny Hamlin in the qualifying and was really happy about it.

Talking to the media post-race, the Spire Motorsports driver recalled how the fans cheered him more than ever after finishing upfront. It was an unbelievable moment for him, as he never expected so much support at Indy. He believes it might have to do with his impressive performance or him beating Hamlin.

Yeah, I mean it’s just unbelievable. I just got out of the car, and they were yelling and cheering and everything. I just couldn’t believe it. No, I appreciate it. I don’t know if they’re cheering just because I beat Denny or just the fact we were on the front row. But no, I’m super pumped.

Carson Hocevar said via TNT Sports.

Further talking about the point, Carson Hocevar highlighted the pole is kind of a revenge on Denny Hamlin, as the Joe Gibbs Racing veteran stole the pole from him in his home track, Michigan this year. The youngster is also happy he is able to start upfront in his most favorite track and the home venue for his boss Jeff Dickerson.

Denny stole one from me from Michigan. So yeah, this is hometown for Jeff and everybody at Spire. And yeah, it’s just fun to use, you know, our own notes for the last two years and get these cars better and faster. And yeah, just enjoy it. These guys work really hard. It’s, you know, 200 people plus in the shop at Spire Motorsports.

Carson Hocevar added as reported via On3.com.

Denny Hamlin is determined to win the Brickyard 400 over Carson Hocevar

Just like Hocevar, Hamlin is also searching for his maiden win at Indy as he hasn’t won single race at the venue despite being in the Cup for almost two decades. He has won three of the four crown jewel races, and Indy is the last race in the category for him to conquer. This might be the second last shot the No:11 driver has to win the event and he desperate to do it.

I’m certainly willing to take a few more risks here, whether it be on restarts or whatever it might be. If it’s a strategy, something to give us a shot to win. Simply because this is like the Daytona 500. I really don’t see this as a race where I count points. I count, like, did you win or did you not? For me, I think that’s the most important thing.

Denny Hamlin said.

That’s why Hamlin has confirmed to the media that he is going to take any risks necessary to win the event, though he knows there is so much he can do to come out victorious. He believes his team would have enough in them to help him get over the hill.

Hopefully we have all the pieces in place to do that, but there’s only so many risks you can take. If you’re 10 laps short on fuel, that’s a stupid risk. You’re not going to make it, right? But if you’re a couple, then are you willing to make that risk? I think that my team knows what I want them to do this weekend.

Denny Hamlin added.

The comments from the veteran shows how much he wants to enter the elite list of drivers to win all the Crown Jewel races. It would be interesting to see how everything is going to playout for Hamlin who would start at P5, while Hocevar will have an advantage starting at P1.

Also Read: “He’s Like a Son!” Dale Earnhardt Jr. In Tears as Carson Kvapil Secures Maiden O’Reilly Series Win at Brickyard