Alex Bowman Out for Next Three NASCAR Races

Vertigo continues to plague the driver, with the medical team recommending more time to recuperate.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 3:51am

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Alex Bowman, the 32-year-old NASCAR driver, will miss at least the next three Cup races at Darlington, Martinsville, and Bristol due to ongoing vertigo symptoms. Hendrick Motorsports has tapped Justin Allgaier, a NASCAR Xfinity Series champion, to drive the No. 48 Chevrolet in Bowman's absence.

Why it matters

Bowman's health issues come at a critical time in the NASCAR season, as drivers jockey for position in the playoff standings. His absence could impact Hendrick Motorsports' performance and the competitive balance in the series.

The details

Bowman first experienced vertigo symptoms during the March 1 race at Circuit of the Americas, forcing him to exit the car at lap 71. He was unable to compete in the subsequent races at Phoenix Raceway and Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Hendrick Motorsports has expressed full support for Bowman's recovery, with the team president stating they are '100 percent behind Alex' as he works to get medically cleared to return.

  • Bowman experienced vertigo symptoms during the March 1 race at Circuit of the Americas.
  • Bowman was unable to compete at Phoenix Raceway and Las Vegas Motor Speedway earlier this month.
  • Bowman will miss the next three NASCAR Cup races at Darlington, Martinsville, and Bristol.

The players

Alex Bowman

A 32-year-old NASCAR driver who is currently sidelined due to ongoing vertigo symptoms.

Jeff Andrews

The president and general manager of Hendrick Motorsports, the team that fields Bowman's car.

Justin Allgaier

A NASCAR Xfinity Series champion who will drive the No. 48 Chevrolet in Bowman's absence.

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What they’re saying

“Alex continues to experience symptoms, so we are following the guidance of the medical team and giving him the time he needs to recover. We see how hard he's working to get back behind the wheel, and we're looking forward to his return when he's medically cleared. Everyone at Hendrick Motorsports is 100 percent behind Alex.”

— Jeff Andrews, President and General Manager, Hendrick Motorsports

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Bowman's health issues highlight the challenges NASCAR drivers face in maintaining peak physical condition throughout a grueling season. Hendrick Motorsports' decision to sideline Bowman and bring in a capable substitute in Allgaier demonstrates the team's commitment to Bowman's recovery and the long-term success of the organization.