Hendrick Motorsports issued an update on team driver Alex Bowman after his early exit from the Circuit of the Americas race last week. In an official press release, the Cup Series team announced Bowman would be sitting out the Phoenix race after being diagnosed with vertigo.

The 32-year-old driver began experiencing symptoms before he exited the DuraMax Texas Grand Prix Powered by RelaDyne held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, on lap 71. Later, Bowman underwent a two-day medical evaluation post the COTA race. Additionally, he drove laps in a streetcar at the Ten Tenths Motor Club road course in Concord.

Hendrick Motorsports president Jeff Andrews praised Alex Bowman’s efforts. However, he claimed the driver’s health is the team’s top priority and explained:

“Alex has worked very hard over the last several days. We’re encouraged by the progress he’s making, but we have to prioritize his health above all else. It’s obviously frustrating for him because he’s a competitor and wants to be in the race car, especially at his home track. We’ll continue to support Alex and look forward to his return as soon as he’s medically cleared.”

NASCAR driver Anthony Alfredo will replace Alex Bowman in the #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevy for the Straight Talk Wireless 500 scheduled for March 8, 2026. Additionally, the team will also raise a request for a medical waiver on behalf of Bowman to keep him eligible for the 2026 championship.

Alex Bowman opened up about Hendrick Motorsports’ strategy change for the 2026 Cup Series

NASCAR driver Alex Bowman was not impressed with his performance in the 2025 season. He was seen struggling to secure a playoff spot and then became the first driver to exit championship contention. Also, Bowman was the only HMS driver with no wins on the grid.

However, the #48 Chevy team has made changes for the 2026 season to turn the odds in its favor. Talking about the same, the Hendrick Motorsports driver stated:

“There’s no secret last year was a big struggle for us, and we’ve made an immense amount of changes to try to be better for 2026.”

“Everything from the top down, really, with the exception of me, Blake, and (spotter) Kevin (Hamlin), has been a change. So, all new faces on the team. Just trying to be better. So it’ll be interesting to get everybody working together and trying to jell, but I’m excited to get to the racetrack and get to work and get going on it,” he added.

Alex Bowman had multiple chances to win a race last season. However, he finished as the runner-up driver at Miami and Richmond. Additionally, he secured two podium finishes at Dover Motor Speedway and EchoPark Speedway. Moving to the 2026 season, Bowman currently ranks 36th in the standings with 23 points in three starts.