As speculation intensifies about relocating the NASCAR All-Star Race, Alex Bowman on NASCAR All-Star Race has offered his candid views on Dover Motor Speedway possibly hosting the exhibition event in 2026. Bowman, representing Hendrick Motorsports, voiced both his enthusiasm for marquee races and his disappointment at the potential loss of a points race at one of his favorite circuits.
Recent reporting indicates that NASCAR is closely considering Dover for the All-Star event, which is traditionally a non-points competition. This potential shift would pave the way for North Wilkesboro Speedway to regain a Cup Series points race for the first time since 1996. Dover, a mainstay on the schedule since 1969, could lose a prized points-paying status if the proposal moves forward, significantly altering the dynamics for drivers and teams alike.
Bowman’s Take on Dover’s Future and Track Rotation Concept
Alex Bowman did not hide his strong feelings about the proposed calendar changes and was especially vocal about his personal connection to the Delaware oval:
“I’d hate to lose a points race at Dover. It’s my favorite race track, but that’s part for the course for places I like, I guess. But, I think it should be on a rotation for sure. Dover, you’re going to have to have a day race. There’s no lights there. It’d be kind of different than a lot of All-Star races or All-Star events typically are. So I’d rather see that one stay a points race, but we’re pretty good there and a million dollars would be nice too.”
Bowman’s affection for Dover is rooted in success — he claimed a win at the track in 2021 and boasts five top-five finishes. His comments underline a personal stake as Dover represents one of his strongest venues. NASCAR’s consideration of shifting prominent races across different locations, with championship venues now on a rotating basis, supports Bowman’s suggestion that the All-Star event could move around each year. If realized, this approach would create opportunities for other legendary venues like North Wilkesboro, welcomed by fans keen for its return to points action.
The All-Star Race has already seen frequent relocation in recent years. After decades at Charlotte Motor Speedway, it went to Bristol in 2020, Texas in 2021 and 2022, and North Wilkesboro in 2023. Each move brought unique challenges and excitement, with the latest All-Star Race seeing Christopher Bell clinch a close victory over Joey Logano, drawing high praise for its competitiveness and fan experience.
Milestone Weekend: Bowman’s 350th Cup Start at Richmond
The latest Cup race at Richmond, the Cook Out 400, carries extra significance for Alex Bowman, as it marks his 350th career Cup Series start. Set against Richmond’s 0.75-mile short track, the event is not only crucial for playoff positioning but also highlights Bowman’s longevity and accomplishments in top-level NASCAR competition.
With three drivers currently holding playoff spots on points — Tyler Reddick, Alex Bowman, and Chris Buescher — the competition remains fierce. Reddick holds a strong 117-point advantage, while Bowman and Buescher are precariously ahead of Ryan Preece. As the regular season edges toward its conclusion and Daytona looms, a new winner outside the top 16 could greatly reshape the playoff scenario.
When reflecting on reaching his 350th Cup start, Bowman shared his honest thoughts:
“No, certainly not. It just makes me feel old. So I’m just glad somebody came over here with something positive to say… it’s been a crazy ride, especially the first couple years versus now. It’s such a different situation. So it’s pretty cool.”
NASCAR qualifying at Richmond shaped up for Hendrick Motorsports with Chase Elliott securing a fifth-place start, Alex Bowman rolling off ninth, William Byron in 14th, and Kyle Larson — two-time Richmond winner — starting from 30th following a slower qualifying lap. Larson remains a threat given his previous success at the circuit, including the last HMS win there in 2023.
Bowman, who secured his only Richmond victory in 2021, has extra motivation with his playoff standing and milestone start. Saturday’s race will be an opportunity for the No. 48 team to continue their momentum and solidify their place in the championship chase.
What the Schedule Changes Could Mean for NASCAR and Its Stars
The ongoing debate about the All-Star Race location highlights NASCAR‘s willingness to refresh its traditions and increase fan engagement. By considering sites like Dover and North Wilkesboro for marquee or points races, NASCAR acknowledges both its storied past and the demands of modern fans and drivers such as Kyle Larson, William Byron, Christopher Bell, Joey Logano, Chase Elliott, Tyler Reddick, and Chris Buescher.
If the All-Star Race is officially moved to Dover, it will reshape the schedule for coming seasons and potentially influence team and driver strategies. The change would also ensure more tracks gain exposure and legacy, underlining NASCAR’s efforts to balance tradition with innovation as it approaches future Cup Series schedules.
