Carson Hocevar Swaps the Driver’s Seat for the Broadcast Booth at the 57th Snowball Derby
At just 21 years old, Carson Hocevar, the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year, is already laying the groundwork for life beyond the track. While he’s far from retiring, Hocevar is set to embrace a new role during the prestigious 57th Snowball Derby, stepping away from the driver’s seat to serve as both a car owner and a broadcaster for the event.
Hocevar Steps into Ownership and Commentary
Though he won’t be racing in this year’s Snowball Derby, Hocevar is still deeply involved. His team, Carson Hocevar Racing, will field the No. 14 car driven by Chase Pinsonneault. Additionally, Hocevar has joined the Snowball Derby Broadcast Team, a decision born from a late-night text exchange with FloRacing’s Rob Blount.
Blount explained the backstory:
“Carson Hocevar and I were texting late last night and we came up with an idea, so why don’t you tell everyone what you’re going to be doing for the rest of the weekend, specifically on Sunday for the Snowball Derby.”
Hocevar, both excited and nervous about his new role, shared his enthusiasm:
“I guess they’re gonna give me a mic and let me into the booth. I’ve never been up there. It won’t be the first time I watched Snowball Derby, but it’s the first time I have been here in person and planned not to race. So I am pumped to be able to call it and everything. It’s been fun. I have been down here all week; it’s been good.”
For a fiercely competitive driver like Hocevar, not racing at such a storied event might feel unusual. Yet, he’s thrilled to be part of the Derby in a different capacity, adding:
“I’ve done work… a little bit on CARSTour and whatnot. So pumped to do it at the biggest short track race.”
The Snowball Derby: A Legendary Event
The Snowball Derby has been a hallmark of short-track racing for over 50 years, with past winners including NASCAR legends like Darrell Waltrip (1976) and Kyle Busch (2009). Chase Elliott, now a Cup Series star, became the youngest winner in 2011 at just 16 years old.
This year’s event features some of the brightest names in NASCAR, including defending champion Ty Majeski, Chandler Smith, Carson Kvapil, and Sammy Smith. Noah Gragson, the only confirmed Cup Series driver for 2025 in the field, will also compete.
Despite the historic prestige, the 2024 Snowball Derby marks a notable shift, with just 44 cars entered—the lowest in Derby history. However, the prize money has reached a record $50,000, a sign of the event’s continued prominence.
Hocevar’s Love for the Derby
For Hocevar, the Snowball Derby isn’t just another race—it’s his favorite. He’s passionate about its unique atmosphere and long-standing traditions, explaining:
“It is my favorite race of the year… I can’t wait to be myself a little bit part of this as well and keep growing this thing to where it’s 60 cars-70 cars and paying big money.”
Responding to concerns about declining entries, Hocevar shared his hopes for the event’s future:
“I hope it pays more, yes, but the amount of practice and long drawn-out overdone schedule is the draw for me. This feels exactly like the Daytona 500 used to. I hope nothing changes moving forward other than the check you get at the end of the event. Best ‘event’ we have, imo.”
With its extended practice sessions and week-long festivities, the Snowball Derby offers drivers an experience reminiscent of NASCAR’s golden days—something Hocevar cherishes.
What’s Next for Hocevar?
As the youngest NASCAR Rookie of the Year embraces this new broadcasting role, it’s clear Carson Hocevar is eager to expand his horizons while maintaining his deep connection to the sport.
While he takes the mic this weekend, all eyes will be on the track to see which driver claims victory in the 57th Snowball Derby. Who’s your pick to win?
