Mike Joy Clarifies Mistake on Alex Bowman's Vertigo

FOX Sports broadcaster apologizes for incorrect update on Bowman's health issue

Mar. 10, 2026 at 8:25pm

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Mike Joy, the FOX Sports broadcaster, has cleared the air surrounding a mistake he made about an update on NASCAR driver Alex Bowman's vertigo during the Cup Series race at Phoenix. Joy acknowledged that he misspoke when he said Bowman's vertigo was not related to a prior COTA incident, when in fact it was a continuation of that issue. Joy issued an apology to Bowman and said he would correct the record on an upcoming broadcast.

Why it matters

Accurate reporting and transparency from broadcasters is important for maintaining trust with NASCAR fans and providing them with reliable information about driver health and competition. Joy's acknowledgment of the mistake and commitment to correcting it on air helps maintain that credibility.

The details

Bowman started experiencing vertigo symptoms during the COTA race on March 1, forcing him to exit the race with 25 laps remaining. He was then diagnosed with vertigo after additional testing. Hendrick Motorsports president Jeff Andrews spoke about Bowman's condition, saying it "really has just kind of come out of nowhere" and that Bowman has been treated for back and neck pain in the past, which is common for NASCAR drivers. Anthony Alfredo drove Bowman's No. 48 Chevrolet at the Phoenix race, finishing 33rd.

  • On March 1, Bowman started experiencing vertigo symptoms during the COTA race.
  • On March 10, Mike Joy issued an apology and said he would correct the record on an upcoming broadcast.

The players

Mike Joy

The FOX Sports broadcaster who made the mistake in his update on Alex Bowman's vertigo.

Alex Bowman

The NASCAR Cup Series driver who missed the Phoenix race due to vertigo symptoms.

Jeff Andrews

The Hendrick Motorsports president who spoke about Bowman's vertigo diagnosis.

Anthony Alfredo

The driver who replaced Bowman in the No. 48 Chevrolet at the Phoenix race.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.