Alex Bowman, despite suffering a head-on collision last weekend at Michigan International Speedway, is slated to participate in the upcoming NASCAR Cup race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. The development, which centers on Alex Bowman racing in Mexico after Michigan crash, comes as Hendrick Motorsports confirmed Anthony Alfredo will be ready as a backup driver should Bowman be unable to compete.
Bowman’s Recovery and Medical Evaluation
Bowman underwent a medical evaluation for back pain following the crash at Michigan, reflecting the still-raw impact of his accident. Last season, injury forced him out of four Cup races when he suffered a fractured vertebra during a sprint car event. His resilience is under close watch by the team and fans as he returns to the track so soon after the incident.
Crash Details and Bowman’s Reaction
The Michigan crash was triggered when Austin Cindric made contact with Cole Custer, whose car in turn collided with Bowman’s, sending Bowman directly into the wall.
“That was probably top of the board on hits I’ve taken, and unfortunately I’ve had a lot of hits. So I hate that for the 48 team. Couldn’t really do anything except think about ‘Oh (expletive) this is about to hurt really bad.’ Hate that. Hate that for our team.”
—Alex Bowman, Driver
After the accident, Bowman was seen by medical personnel at the infield care center before being cleared for further evaluation and, now, the Mexico event.
Standby Driver and Team Strategy
Anthony Alfredo, the main simulator driver for Hendrick Motorsports, is entered in the Xfinity Series race on Saturday and will be present in Mexico as Bowman’s backup. This contingency ensures Hendrick Motorsports is prepared for any last-minute changes should Bowman be unable to race.
Recent Performance and Season Standing
The Michigan crash capped a difficult stretch for Bowman; he finished last out of 36 cars, marking his seventh result outside the top 26 in the past nine races. During this period, he has slid from third to 13th place in the championship standings, intensifying pressure on both himself and the Ally Chevy team to improve their results.
Looking Forward to Mexico City
Despite the adversity, Bowman is determined to compete and welcomes the opportunity to drive in an international venue.
“I’m really looking forward to racing in Mexico this weekend,”
Bowman stated through Hendrick Motorsports.
“It’s always special to bring our sport to new places and feel the excitement from fans who don’t always get to see us race in person.”
—Alex Bowman, Driver
Bowman’s history on road courses gives him reasons for optimism; he has achieved five top-10 finishes in his last nine road course appearances, and his latest Cup win came at the Chicago Street Race in July of the previous year.
Nevertheless, he acknowledges recent hurdles:
“Our No. 48 Ally Chevy team has had speed, but we haven’t had the results to show for it lately. We’re ready to turn our luck around and put together a strong race from start to finish.”
—Alex Bowman, Driver
What’s at Stake for Bowman and Hendrick Motorsports
This race in Mexico marks a significant moment for both Bowman and Hendrick Motorsports. Success on Sunday could help reverse the team’s recent string of disappointing finishes and restore confidence as they move further into the Cup season. The event also brings NASCAR to a new fanbase at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, adding an international spotlight and extra importance to Bowman’s performance after a challenging week.
