Alex Bowman Returns to NASCAR at Bristol Amid Chase Format Changes

Chastain discusses strategy for new playoff system as Bowman rejoins Cup Series at Bristol

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:01pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the chaos and energy of a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway, with cars and track fragmented into sharp, overlapping planes of color and motion.The new NASCAR Chase playoff format adds an extra layer of strategic complexity as drivers like Ross Chastain navigate the road to the championship.Bristol Today

NASCAR driver Alex Bowman is making his return to the Cup Series this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway, his first race back after a brief hiatus. Meanwhile, fellow driver Ross Chastain commented on the strategy involved in navigating the Cup Series' new Chase playoff format, which is in its early stages this season.

Why it matters

Bowman's return to racing is significant, as he is one of the top young talents in NASCAR. The new Chase format has also introduced new strategic considerations for drivers as they vie for a spot in the season-ending championship playoffs.

The details

Bowman, who drives the No. 48 car, has been sidelined for several weeks due to an undisclosed medical issue. He will be back in action this Sunday at the Bristol short track. Meanwhile, Chastain, who currently sits near the top of the points standings, discussed the nuances of the revamped Chase format, which features a new points system and elimination rounds leading up to the final championship race.

  • Bowman will return to NASCAR competition this Sunday, April 13, 2026 at Bristol Motor Speedway.
  • The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season is currently in its early stages, with the new Chase playoff format being used for the first time.

The players

Alex Bowman

A 28-year-old NASCAR Cup Series driver who competes full-time in the No. 48 car.

Ross Chastain

A 33-year-old NASCAR Cup Series driver who currently sits near the top of the points standings in the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“There is a strategy involved in knowing when to make a move in the Cup's new Chase format. You have to be smart about when you time your pushes for the playoffs.”

— Ross Chastain, NASCAR Cup Series Driver

What’s next

Bowman will look to make a strong return to competition this weekend at Bristol, while Chastain and other drivers will continue to navigate the nuances of the new Chase playoff format as the season progresses.

The takeaway

Bowman's return to NASCAR racing at Bristol is an important moment, as he is one of the sport's rising young stars. Meanwhile, the new Chase format has introduced additional strategic considerations for drivers as they jockey for position in the playoff hunt.