Alex Bowman Nightmare 2026 Continues as He Set to Miss Phoenix Cup Race Over Vertigo

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season so far has been a nightmare for Hendrick Motorsports’ Alex Bowman. He is currently P36 in the points table after the first three races, owing to poor finishes. The most challenging moment of the veteran’s season happened last week, when he was replaced mid-way to the race owing to an illness.

Ahead of the Phoenix race, Hendrick Motorsports has revealed that Alex Bowman will sit-out the weekend. He was diagnosed with Vertigo and for the team the veteran’s health takes priority. That’s why the team has given Anthony Alfredo the responsibility to lead to the No:48 HMS team to success this Sunday.

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.

Jeff Andrews said via a press-release.

Further talking about the point, Team President Jeff Andrews admitted that the situation is really frustrating for the Chevy driver. He, just like rest of the grid, is a competitor who wants to win more races for his team. He promised continue support the veteran, to help him a make quick return and redeem himself from the tough start to 2026.

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.

Jeff Andrews added.

Kevin Harvick recently warned Alex Bowman’s team is unravelling

2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick after the COTA race weekend shared his thoughts on Alex Bowman and his crew. He feels bad for the No:48 team over the health scare and admitted that he feels like the team in unravelling owing to the poor streak.

I don’t know, I mean you never want to speculate on somebody’s health or what’s happening. But it just feels like the 48 thing is just kind of unraveling right in front of us. Haven’t had a good week yet as far as performance.

Kevin Harvick said on his podcast.

Furthermore, he pointed out that not performing well at COTA, a track where he has historically been a good is a big miss for his team. It was their first finish outside the top-10 in five years. Last weekend was a step back for the No:48 team and Bowman sitting out this week will be another setback.

COTA was definitely one of those places where Alex Bowman hadn’t finished outside of the top 10 ever in the first five years. And really never did anything to go forward on the weekend.

Kevin Harvick added.

The comments from the veteran are on point and is valid. It would be interesting to see how everything is going to playout for the Hendrick Motorsports team and Alex Bowman in the coming races, as his career is at stake over the poor runs.

Also Read: Denny Hamlin Is Determined to Perform at Phoenix Despite Massive 2025 Finale Heartbreak

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