Spire Motorsports has fined Carson Hocevar $50,000 after he made disrespectful remarks about Mexico City during a livestream held while NASCAR was racing there last weekend.
Hocevar, who is 22, later apologized Sunday night, expressing regret and admitting it was his first time outside the U.S. He said his comments were based on negative things he had read or heard about the city.
“I’m embarrassed by what I said,” he wrote in a detailed apology.
As part of the consequences, Spire is also requiring Hocevar to undergo training on cultural sensitivity and bias awareness.
The $50,000 fine will be donated equally to three organizations that support communities in Mexico:
Cruz Roja Mexicana (Mexican Red Cross)
Un Kilo de Ayuda, which fights child malnutrition and supports early childhood development in rural areas
Fondo Unido México (United Way Mexico), which backs NGOs focused on education, health, and housing
Spire Motorsports emphasized that these actions align with their core value of RESPECT, a principle they proudly display across their operations.
They noted that Hocevar’s comments did not reflect the values of Spire, its partners, or NASCAR. While his apology showed accountability, the team stressed the importance of backing up words with action.
Spire has informed NASCAR of the steps taken, saying they meet all necessary standards. The team also reaffirmed its commitment to NASCAR’s global growth, its appreciation for the Mexican fanbase, and the importance of treating all hosts and communities with respect.
“We’re ready to move forward—racing hard, representing our partners, and living out our values both on and off the track,” Spire concluded.
