Alex Bowman Out for Phoenix with Vertigo – Alfredo to Substitute

Alex Bowman will miss this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway after being diagnosed with vertigo, Hendrick Motorsports announced. The illness forced Bowman to withdraw from last Sunday’s race at the Circuit of the Americas with just over 20 laps remaining, with Myatt Snider taking over the No. 48 Chevrolet.

The team confirmed Bowman underwent evaluation in the days following the race and received the vertigo diagnosis. “Alex has worked very hard over the last several days,” said Jeff Andrews, president of Hendrick Motorsports. “We’re encouraged by the progress he’s making, but we have to prioritize his health above all else. 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.”

Anthony Alfredo will fill in for Bowman at Phoenix. Alfredo has 43 previous Cup Series starts under his belt, most recently attempting to qualify for the 2026 Daytona 500 with Beard Motorsports. While he initially made the field, he was later disqualified after the car failed post-race inspection. He has achieved two top-ten finishes in his Cup career, with a best result of sixth place at Talladega in 2024. Alfredo also currently serves as a sim driver for Hendrick Motorsports, providing a unique perspective and familiarity with the team’s setups.

Bowman’s unexpected illness and subsequent absence raise questions about his eligibility for the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Hendrick Motorsports intends to request a medical waiver from NASCAR to maintain Bowman’s playoff eligibility. But, missing a race, particularly with the current points-based format, significantly complicates his path to qualifying for the top 16. Bowman currently sits 36th in the championship standings – last among full-time drivers – after a challenging start to the season that saw finishes of 40th at Daytona, 23rd at Atlanta and 36th at COTA.

The situation at COTA unfolded rapidly. Bowman, who has historically performed well at the Austin track, began to struggle behind the wheel as the race progressed. He managed to secure a handful of stage points in Stage 1, finishing seventh, but faded towards the back of the field as his condition worsened. With 25 laps to go, Bowman radioed his team, stating, “I don’t realize if I’m going to make it.” His spotter, Kevin Hamlin, responded, “It’s your call,” while crew chief Blake Harris assured Bowman that it was acceptable to exit the car if necessary. The team instructed Bowman that finishing or not finishing at that point would have no impact on his points situation, prioritizing his well-being above all else.

The team’s decision to allow Snider to complete the race, while resulting in a significant loss of track position – five laps down at the finish – underscored the seriousness of Bowman’s condition. The mid-race driver change was approved by NASCAR officials after review. The incident highlights the physical demands placed on NASCAR drivers and the importance of prioritizing driver health and safety.

Bowman’s home track, Phoenix Raceway, adds another layer of complexity to his absence. The track is a familiar venue for the Arizona native, and missing the opportunity to compete there is undoubtedly disappointing for the driver. The team’s focus now is on Bowman’s recovery and ensuring he returns to the track when he is fully cleared by medical professionals. The length of his absence remains uncertain, leaving his playoff hopes hanging in the balance.

Alfredo’s opportunity at Phoenix represents a significant chance for the young driver to showcase his talent and potentially earn a more permanent role within the sport. His previous experience in the Cup Series, coupled with his familiarity with Hendrick Motorsports through his sim racing work, could prove valuable as he steps into the No. 48 Chevrolet.