Stewart Haas Racing drivers finding new homes during this silly season was for some time believed to be the big move this year. However, the rumor mills are running again in overdrive, which might lead to the biggest shuffle in the drivers and teams for 2025. Surprisingly, it’s Hendrick Motorsports driver Alex Bowman, expected to take an exit from the team.
So basically, these talks about Bowman’s uncertain future started with Brett Griffin’s statement on the DBC podcast show. The industry veteran opined, “I’d say Alex Bowman is out, and he may be out in more than just the playoffs if he’s out first round.” Adding fuel to this fire was journalist Austin Konenski, who believed Alex Bowman was in the hot seat.
“I’ve been skeptical about the entire thing, but it’s been getting louder. Definitely think the seats are warm. The 2026 season could also be a better idea? Very fluid NASCAR silly season stuff!” stated this via his X account. It has to be noted that although Bowman secured his playoff spot with a win at Chicago, he hasn’t exactly turned heads with his performances on the racetrack. If we are, to compare his run to his teammates.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Kyle Larson and William Byron have multiple victories under their belt, while Chase Elliott has been consistent throughout the regular season. However, the No. 48 team considerably continued their struggles over the past two years. And perhaps the win at the Chicago street race was the lucky break they needed. Bowman sits 12th as the driver with the least amount of points and enters the playoffs with a solo win to his name.
Polls of the day Poll 1 of 5 Should Kyle Busch return to Hendrick Motorsports? Absolutely No way Only if Bowman leaves Not sure Do you think NASCAR’s new international schedule is putting drivers at risk? Yes No Not sure Whats your Perspective on: Should Kyle Busch return to Hendrick Motorsports and show Alex Bowman how it’s done? Have an interesting take? Join The Debate Who is most to blame for Bubba Wallace missing the playoffs? Bubba Wallace Ross Chastain The team Bad luck Do you think Martin Truex Jr. is already mentally checked out of NASCAR? Yes, he’s done No, he’s still in it Maybe, it’s hard to tell
Observing from an outsider’s perspective, it seemed evident that the relationship between HMS and the driver was thriving. Going by the recent development, Mr.H and the team could make changes before the start of next year. Moreover, this also opens the door for further speculation and prediction – who will replace Alex Bowman in the #48 Chevy? And the popular vote for the time being is Kyle Busch.
Fans want Rowdy to rejoin forces with Hendrick Motorsports
Earlier in the season, the 2-time Cup Series champion detailed keeping his options open after constant struggles at RCR. “If [Hendrick Motorsports] welcomed me back, I would go back.” While the Busch and RCR have turned a corner for good since the Olympic break, he might want to reconsider his future with the team. The driver is in prime years and wouldn’t want to continue to run as a mid-pack driver in 2025.
Busch is bound by the contract with RCR that runs until the end of 2025. The only way to jump ship is if someone is willing to break the bank and buy him out of his contract. This is something NASCAR’s winningest racing organization can pull off. “Imagine Rick buys out Kyle’s RCR contract and Kyle goes back to HMS 😂 CHAOS.”
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Some predicted that he could take up the No. 84 car as the #5, which he raced in, is now led by Kyle Larson. However, they will need Jimmie Johnson’s grace for this move, as he might plan to run a part-time feature next year. “I mean, Kyle Busch in the #84 Hendrick Chevrolet sponsored by Ally sounds interesting.”
Not everyone was thrilled by these speculations, but rather baffled at seeing the state of flux within the Cup Series garage. “What in the world is going on today? First, someone started saying that there were told KFB was going to 23XI and now DBC says bowman is out of the 48.”
Now it is difficult to confirm this news, and rumors keep floating on social media. But the mere idea of Busch ending his mediocre run at RCR to get into competitive racing, winning team was enough for his fans to get excited. “Kyle Busch to the 48 confirmed. Per my top secret source.”
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Even loyal Bowman supporters had caught on to the air of uncertainty regarding his future at HMS. They even laid down the team where he could perhaps become a lead driver with a decorated crew chief at his disposal. “Honestly, back before they won Chicago, I was thinking it would be nice if Bowman could somehow end up somewhere like Spire.”
Given how entertaining and full of surprises this silly season has been, this news is certainly exciting for the fans. Thus, this development could cause a ripple effect on teams and the driver moments in 2025.