Alex Bowman to miss Phoenix race due to vertigo

Anthony Alfredo will replace Bowman in the No. 48 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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NASCAR Cup Series driver Alex Bowman will miss Sunday's race at Phoenix Raceway while battling vertigo. Bowman, an Arizona native, became ill during last weekend's race at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, and was replaced by Myatt Snider. Hendrick Motorsports president Jeff Andrews said the team is encouraged by Bowman's progress but must prioritize his health above all else.

Why it matters

Bowman is an eight-time winner in the Cup Series and was looking forward to racing at his home track in Phoenix. His absence due to vertigo raises concerns about his health and ability to compete consistently this season.

The details

Anthony Alfredo, a 26-year-old with 43 career Cup Series starts, will replace Bowman behind the wheel of the No. 48 Chevrolet. Bowman has missed races in the past due to a concussion and a broken back.

  • Bowman became ill during last weekend's race at Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas.
  • Bowman underwent two days of medical testing before being diagnosed with vertigo.

The players

Alex Bowman

A 32-year-old NASCAR Cup Series driver who has won 8 times in his career.

Anthony Alfredo

A 26-year-old driver who has made 43 career starts in the Cup Series and is a simulator test driver for Hendrick Motorsports and Chevrolet.

Jeff Andrews

The president of Hendrick Motorsports.

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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 (statenews.net)

What’s next

Bowman will continue to undergo medical testing and treatment for his vertigo, with the goal of returning to racing as soon as he is cleared by doctors.

The takeaway

Bowman's battle with vertigo highlights the physical challenges NASCAR drivers face and the importance of prioritizing their health, even when it means missing races. Hendrick Motorsports' support for Bowman during this time underscores the team's commitment to its drivers' well-being.