Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 13 Days

By Adam Carabine

Counting down the final 30 days to the 2026 Daytona 500, we are looking at last year's Top 30 drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Today's driver: Alex Bowman

Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images

No. 48 Car – Hendrick Motorsports

2025 Stats

Standings	13th
Wins	0
Points	2,192
Stage Points	169
Stage Wins	0
Laps Led	165
Lead Lap Finishes	23
Average Finish	17.4
DNFs	4
Races since last win	52

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

Alex Bowman gets a tough rap at Hendrick, where the other three drivers on his team have found more success lately.  Many teams would be very happy to have Bowman on their roster, but he’s seen as the weak link at Hendrick.  For 2026, Bowman needs to get back into victory lane in order to call it a success.  He was consistent enough last season to make the playoffs without a win, and so he should also be able to make The Chase this year.

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

This will now be five years removed since Bowman’s best Cup Series season, when he won four races.  What’s funny is that is his average finish since then has really only gotten 1.5-2 spots worse, but he isn’t finding ways to close out victories as much.  I don’t think it’s realistic to predict a 4-win season again, but two is doable, and I’ll say best-case scenario is three.

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

Bowman likely stays the number four driver at Hendrick Motorsports, but still has an objectively solid year.  He should be good to make it into The Chase, and challenge for a win or two.  Meanwhile, his teammates will outshine him again, causing many to feel he’s deserving of losing his seat.

Bold Prediction?

Bowman finishes ahead of teammates Chase Elliott and William Byron in 2026.