Injury nightmare for HMS: Alex Bowman is set to miss at least three races due to a fractured vertebra

Alex Bowman missed five races toward the end of last season due to a concussion.

Injury nightmare for HMS: Alex Bowman is set to miss at least three races due to a fractured vertebra

Alex Bowman (@HMS/Twitter)

The 2023 season has been kind to Hendrick Motorsports drivers on the Cup tracks, but outside of it, they are having a hard time. Just two weeks after Chase Elliott’s return after six races hiatus due to a tibia injury, it’s now Alex Bowman’s turn. The No:48 driver had a crazy accident in the sprint race mid-week, contrary to the snowboarding accident of Chase Elliott.  

Bowman is yet to score a win after ten races and will have to find his rhythm on his return immediately to secure playoffs.  He has been one of the most consistent drivers, as always, but considering his teammate William Byron and Kyle Larson already has won twice, he desperately needed to step up, and the minimum three weeks he is expected to spend on the sideline will be a big hiccup.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otZrmu4Xinw&pp=ygULQWxleCBCb3dtYW4%3D

FS Video

The No:48 driver suffered a compression fracture after he crashed out during a sprint race event at 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Iowa. The race is part of Kyle Larson’s sprint race championship, and the more disappointing thing was it Thursday, he was celebrating his 30th birthday. He expected to celebrate the day with a sprint race win but ended up in the hospital bed.

“Last night I was involved in an on-track incident while racing and fractured a vertebraFirst, I want to let everyone know I’m feeling OK. My focus is now on healing and resting. Being out of the car is never an update any driver wants to make. I’m thankful to Josh Berry and Hendrick Motorsports for stepping up to the plate, and I know the entire Ally Racing team will give it their all these next few weeks. I’ll be doing everything I can at home to help the team and ensure my recovery is as quick as possible to get back in the 48 car soon,” Alex Bowman said.

HMS will request a medical waiver from NASCAR to ensure him a spot in the playoff if he becomes eligible. Bowman might have to wait till the race week he might return for the waiver as Elliott did. On return, he has to score back-to-back top 10s and, most importantly, a win to secure a Round of 16 entry.

In case you missed it: Why NASCAR doesn’t have airbags?

Josh Berry will replace Alex Bowman

Josh Berry
Josh Berry

Josh Berry, who drove the No:9 car in 5 races as Elliott’s replacement, will drive the No:48 car. The JRM driver is expected to cement his cup credential for 2024 with an impressive three-race run with the opportunity he got. He has proved that he is ready to take the next step with the P2 finish in Elliott’s Chevy at Richmond. HMS boss Rick Hendrick expects the No:48 team to remain at the Top and a quick recovery of Bowman.

“We’re relieved Alex is home, in good spirits, and getting world-class treatment. Giving him ample time and the foremost resources to heal is our top priority. He’s having a tremendous season, and the No. 48 is at the top of its game. We know what Josh is capable of in the race car and that Blake [Harris, crew chief] and the team will continue operating at a high level until Alex is ready to return. He has our full, unequivocal support,” Rick Hendrick said.

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