NASCAR Cup Series driver Alex Bowman Jr.’s unique habits before races, as well as the aftermath of his most severe crash, have come into focus after a recent look behind the scenes. As fans prepare for NASCAR on Prime to launch in 2025, Bowman’s story provides insight into Alex Bowman NASCAR pre-race rituals and crash, highlighting both the lighter and more challenging moments of his season.
Diverse Routines Behind the Wheel
Before taking to the track, NASCAR drivers like Alex Bowman Jr., Ross Chastain, AJ Allmendinger, Zane Smith, Eric Jones, and Austin Dillon have developed routines to ready themselves mentally and physically. In a video circulated by Sports on Prime, which showcased drivers ahead of select Cup Series events, viewers saw just how personal these habits could be.
Alex Bowman Jr. offered a glimpse into his own method, stating,
“Just kind of wear your lucky underwear,”
—Alex Bowman Jr., Driver. For Bowman, simplicity and superstition play a subtle role in his preparation, contrasting with some of his competitors.
Other drivers revealed different strategies. AJ Allmendinger sets his race-day tone with carefully chosen music, typically opting for hard rock acts like Five Finger Death Punch or Godsmack, selecting tracks that match his mood. Eric Jones follows a strict sequence when getting dressed, paying attention even to the order he puts on his socks, ensuring consistency before he gets behind the wheel.
Routine meals and prayer are essential for Austin Dillon, who spends time with family ahead of each race. Ross Chastain, drawing from personal experience, adheres to a controlled eating schedule, relying on dishes such as chicken, rice, and watermelon for optimal performance on the track. Zane Smith chooses relaxation and clean eating shared with family, focusing on staying mentally refreshed for the challenges ahead at locations such as Michigan International Speedway and future events like the Viva Mexico 250 in Mexico City.
Alex Bowman Jr.’s Most Severe Crash at Michigan
While pre-race routines offer comfort, the real dangers of the NASCAR Cup Series became apparent during the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan. On lap 67, Bowman’s #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet made contact with Cole Custer’s car and then slammed head-on into the wall. The impact immediately ended Bowman’s day, resulting in his third race this season where he did not finish.
After being evaluated and released from the infield care center, Bowman described the aftermath to FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass, specifically noting the force of the crash:
“50(G) something, front and back, and then another 40, vertical,”
—Alex Bowman Jr., Driver. The effects of the wreck left an unmistakable mark, with Bowman comparing it to previous injuries.
“It’s the most painful one I’ve taken for sure… even compared to when I broke my back. It’s way more painful than that was.”
—Alex Bowman Jr., Driver.
This crash rekindled memories of his back injury from a sprint car incident two years earlier, though this time the pain surpassed anything he had previously experienced. With recovery uncertain, Hendrick Motorsports prepared for contingencies by having Xfinity Series driver Anthony Alfredo on standby in the event Bowman could not participate in the upcoming race in Mexico City. Nevertheless, Bowman returned to compete in the Viva Mexico 250 at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez and finished the event without a replacement.
Endurance in the Face of Setbacks
Alex Bowman Jr.’s experiences underscore the pressures, superstitions, and resilience demanded of NASCAR drivers. The routines, whether it’s favorite underwear or methodically following a dressing sequence, help athletes manage the unpredictable and dangerous reality of high-speed racing. Despite suffering his most painful crash at Michigan International Speedway, Bowman’s quick return to competition shows the determination required in the sport, while his approach to pre-race readiness is shared by fellow drivers like AJ Allmendinger and Ross Chastain. As the series heads to new platforms and events, drivers, teams, and fans remain watchful of how competitors respond to adversity on and off the track.
