Alex Bowman to miss Phoenix NASCAR Cup race due to vertigo

Hendrick Motorsports brings in Anthony Alfredo to drive the #48 Chevrolet

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

32-year-old NASCAR driver Alex Bowman has been diagnosed with vertigo and will miss the upcoming Cup race at Phoenix Raceway. Hendrick Motorsports will replace Bowman with Anthony Alfredo, the team's simulator driver, for the event.

Why it matters

Bowman's absence is a significant blow to his playoff hopes, as the new point-driven format will make it difficult for him to climb back into the top 16 drivers if he misses a race. Hendrick Motorsports will request a medical waiver to keep Bowman eligible for the Chase, but his health is the top priority.

The details

Bowman had to step out of the #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet during last weekend's race at Circuit of the Americas after experiencing vertigo symptoms. Alfredo, who has 43 previous Cup starts and recently qualified for the Daytona 500, will take over driving duties for the Phoenix race.

  • Bowman had to exit the race at Circuit of the Americas last weekend due to vertigo.
  • Bowman was evaluated by medical professionals over the past few days and has been diagnosed with vertigo.
  • The Phoenix NASCAR Cup race is scheduled for this upcoming weekend.

The players

Alex Bowman

32-year-old NASCAR driver who competes full-time in the Cup Series for Hendrick Motorsports.

Anthony Alfredo

NASCAR driver who will replace Bowman in the #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet at the Phoenix race. Alfredo is also the simulator driver for Hendrick Motorsports.

Jeff Andrews

President of Hendrick Motorsports, the team that fields the #48 car driven by Bowman.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Alex has worked very hard over the last several days. 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.”

— Jeff Andrews, President, Hendrick Motorsports (yahoo.com)

What’s next

Hendrick Motorsports will request a medical waiver to keep Bowman eligible for the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, but missing the Phoenix race will make it difficult for him to climb back into the top 16 drivers in the new point-driven format.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of driver health and safety in NASCAR, as Hendrick Motorsports is prioritizing Bowman's recovery over his competitive desires. The team's decision to bring in a capable replacement in Alfredo demonstrates their commitment to supporting their driver while also maintaining competitiveness.