A Tribute and a Transition
Chase Elliott took to social media on Tuesday to share an emotional tribute to his teammate Alex Bowman, who revealed that he will step away from full‑time competition in the NASCAR Cup Series after the 2027 season.
Bowman, a fixture at Hendrick Motorsports for almost a decade, confirmed that he has signed a one‑year extension that will keep him on the roster through the end of 2027, giving him one final chance to chase victories before hanging up his helmet.
In his message, Elliott highlighted Bowman’s dedication, professionalism and the quiet influence he has had on the team’s culture, noting that the driver’s work ethic has set a standard for younger crew members.
Bowman, who has logged eight Cup Series wins with Hendrick, including four in 2021, also took the opportunity to thank his teammates, team owner Rick Hendrick and the series’ partners for the support that has defined his career.
Despite battling a concussion, a broken back and episodes of vertigo, Bowman has reached the playoffs seven times, a testament to his resilience and skill.
Looking Ahead to 2028
The retirement announcement has sparked speculation about the coveted seat that will become available in 2028, a position that many drivers view as a career‑defining opportunity.
Fans and analysts alike are already mapping out potential line‑ups, while the organization prepares to honor Bowman’s legacy while charting a new direction for the next chapter.