Alex Bowman, the NASCAR Cup Series driver who has spent a decade behind the wheel of Hendrick Motorsports’ No. 48 Ally Chevrolet, confirmed on Thursday that the upcoming 2027 season will mark his final full‑time campaign.
Bowman’s résumé reads like a modern NASCAR fairy‑tale: eight Cup victories, seven playoff appearances, and a trajectory that began with a surprise call‑up in 2016 to fill in for the injured Dale Earnhardt Jr.
After stepping into the iconic No. 88 car, he later transitioned to the No. 48 following Jimmie Johnson’s retirement, a move that cemented his place in the team’s storied lineage.
Challenges Off the Track
Throughout his career Bowman has battled a series of physical setbacks, including vertigo symptoms that sidelined him for four races earlier this year, yet he has consistently returned to compete at the highest level.
His most recent victory came at the 2024 Chicago Street Race, a triumph that underscored his ability to perform under pressure despite lingering health concerns.
A Final Push for Championships
Bowman emphasized that his focus remains on competing for wins and championships before stepping away, stating that the 2027 season will be his last chance to add a title to his résumé.
Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, praised Bowman’s contributions and supported his decision to retire on his own terms, calling the driver a “cornerstone of the organization.”
Ally Financial, Bowman’s primary sponsor since 2021, expressed appreciation for their partnership and looked forward to one final season together in 2027, promising a celebratory send‑off.