Bowman announces 2027 retirement from full-time racing
NASCAR Cup Series · statement · 2026-07-25
On July 23, 2026, Hendrick Motorsports announced that Alex Bowman signed a one-year contract extension to drive the No. 48 Chevrolet in 2027, his 10th full-time season with the team, after which he will retire from full-time NASCAR Cup Series competition. Bowman, 33, cited a series of serious injuries as a factor, having missed races in 2022 (concussion), 2023 (fractured vertebra), and four races in 2026 due to vertigo. The announcement leaves HMS with a high-profile seat opening following the 2027 season. Bowman holds eight Cup Series victories in 378 career starts.