Tensions Soar in NASCAR: Denny Hamlin Warns “Wrecky” Stenhouse Will Retaliate Against Carson Hocevar After Nashville Clash
The fireworks from Nashville Superspeedway aren’t over yet — and NASCAR may be bracing for an on-track payback.
After a controversial incident in Stage 2 of the Nashville race, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. was spun into the wall following contact from Carson Hocevar, ending his night early with a 39th-place finish. What followed was a wave of frustration, warnings, and a clear message from fellow Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin: this feud is far from over.
On the latest episode of his “Actions Detrimental” podcast, Hamlin didn’t hold back, inadvertently referring to Stenhouse as “Wrecky” — a nickname that’s shadowed the driver for years due to past on-track incidents. But it wasn’t just Hamlin’s slip that got attention. His prediction, delivered with conviction, made headlines:
> “Ricky will absolutely wreck Hocevar… there’s no doubt in my mind.”
The Incident
With just under 20 laps left in Stage 2, Hocevar’s No. 77 Chevrolet got into the left rear of Stenhouse’s No. 47, sending him spinning into the wall. The incident appeared to be avoidable, and Hocevar’s post-race comments — that he was simply trying to push tight through the corner — did little to soothe the tensions.
Stenhouse, known for his fiery demeanor, didn’t immediately retaliate but told reporters, “He knows it’s coming.”
NASCAR’s Brewing Rivalry
Feuds are nothing new to NASCAR, where on-track paybacks are a part of the sport’s rich history. With both drivers expected to be in the field for upcoming races, many fans — and drivers — are now wondering not if, but when the payback will come.
Hamlin, a veteran with his own history of conflicts, added:
> “This sport has a long memory, and Ricky’s not the type to just let that go. Carson better watch his mirrors.”
What’s Next?
As the Cup Series heads into the summer stretch, all eyes will be on any race that puts Hocevar and Stenhouse in close quarters. NASCAR has yet to issue any formal statements regarding the incident, but officials are likely monitoring the situation closely.
Whether this feud escalates into a full-blown rivalry or cools down will depend largely on how Stenhouse chooses to respond — and how Hocevar handles the pressure of a possible retaliatory strike.
One thing is clear: the drama off the track might soon return on it.
