Jeff Gordon Hendrick Motorsports optimism is at the forefront as Hendrick Motorsports concluded the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season with a triumphant return to dominance, reaffirming their place at the top of the motorsport world. This resurgence has been defined by key performances from star drivers like William Byron and Kyle Larson, and marked by a resolute spirit, even when mid-season difficulties raised doubts about their championship potential.
Hendrick Overcomes Challenges to Reclaim Dominance
The 2025 season posted an emphatic statement from Hendrick Motorsports, signaling that their competitive legacy remains as strong as ever. William Byron set the pace early by clinching the regular-season championship thanks to three significant victories, including a second consecutive Daytona 500 win. Meanwhile, Kyle Larson’s reliable performances translated into an impressive second championship title within five years. Together, these successes helped restore the team’s iconic standing in NASCAR, particularly after a turbulent stretch that had many critics wondering if they had lost their edge.
Yet, Jeff Gordon suggests that the true story unfolded behind the scenes, where the determination within Hendrick Motorsports proved even more telling than their on-track achievements.
From Uncertainty Mid-Season to Playoff Success
Reflecting on the struggles that beset Hendrick Motorsports just six months prior, Jeff Gordon acknowledged how the situation appeared far from encouraging, especially on shorter and one-mile circuits.
I wasn’t sure if we could get one here, let alone two here. Our program on the shorter tracks, the one-mile tracks, was just not quite there,
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
Kyle Larson experienced a lengthy winless period after his Kansas triumph in May, and William Byron returned to winning form only in August following his victory at the season-opener. The stories of Alex Bowman and Chase Elliott mirrored this same narrative, highlighting a mid-year slump that cast uncertainty over the team’s prospects.
Throughout these hurdles, Gordon commended the steadfast commitment and work ethic exhibited by the organization.
They didn’t use it as an excuse. They were like, there’s grip to be had and work to be done. Let’s go for it.
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
As the team pushed forward, all four drivers qualified for the NASCAR playoffs, and William Byron secured the regular season championship. The critical breakthrough emerged at Martinsville’s playoff race, where Byron clinched the checkered flag and Larson took fourth, guaranteeing both a shot at the Championship 4. Ultimately, this led to Kyle Larson capturing the title at Phoenix, cementing Hendrick’s return to the summit.
Gordon pinpointed this playoff performance as a defining factor.
The performance at Martinsville… that’s what got us here. I’m super proud of that.
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
Optimism for the 2026 NASCAR Season Finale
Looking ahead, anticipation is building for the 2026 NASCAR season finale, which will move to Homestead, Miami. Jeff Gordon expressed strong confidence in both the team’s abilities and the circuit’s suitability.
Our guys love Homestead and our cars run good there. But, you’ve got to get there. Who knows what the format’s going to be. I hope we’re in the fight again. That’d be amazing.
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
Notably, Kyle Larson recently won a key race at Homestead in March, further reinforcing the team’s prowess on that track. In total, the Hendrick camp amassed four wins, four pole positions, and 21 top-five finishes across 26 races, underscoring their robust form heading into the next championship campaign.
Gordon’s remarks signal a team that has transformed from simply hoping for victory into one that expects to control the field, driven by an environment that values resilience and continual improvement. The expectation within the Hendrick Motorsports camp has been elevated by hard-earned results and a culture of optimism, as they aim for sustained championship success in the years ahead.
Focus on Alex Bowman: Path to Redemption
Alex Bowman entered 2025 after a promising 2024 run, but this season became an exhausting battle marked by consistency yet hampered by a winless streak through all 36 events. Despite moments of speed and aggressive drives, Bowman completed the year 13th in the points, collecting six top-five finishes, sixteen top-tens, and two pole starts at Homestead and Bristol. Through the season’s frustrations, both Jeff Gordon and Rick Hendrick have maintained public faith in Bowman’s ability to bounce back, dismissing speculation about potential replacements.
Bowman’s breakthrough came with his emotionally charged triumph at the 2024 Chicago Street Course, ending an 80-race drought. After fending off the likes of Joey Hand and Tyler Reddick in tricky conditions, he looked poised for a strong run. However, a car-weight infraction at the Charlotte Roval soon after cost Bowman a shot at advancing to the Round of 8, a setback whose effects carried into 2025.
Team owner Rick Hendrick has repeatedly affirmed the No. 48 group’s resilience and commitment.
They had a good start to the year. There have been some tracks where Alex was our best car,
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
That team is working hard on getting better everywhere. I think they’re showing great signs.
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Hendrick has also noted that every team experiences lulls, referencing Chase Elliott’s own previous struggles before his resurgence.
Renewed Faith in the No. 48 Team
Echoing Hendrick’s enthusiasm, Jeff Gordon praised crew chief Blake Harris and the No. 48 squad for their contributions to Hendrick Motorsports’ larger goals.
We know that they’re very valuable, but we also know there’s things that need to be improved there. It’s a big part of our focus in this off-season, is giving Alex, Blake, the tools that they need and making sure surrounding them with all the things that can help strengthen their team and button up some of those things. I’m with Rick, I don’t think they’re that far off,
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
With the leadership of Rick Hendrick and Jeff Gordon, and the growing chemistry within the No. 48 team, there is wide belief that Alex Bowman is only minor changes away from rejoining the championship battle in 2026. The faith in Bowman and crew chief Blake Harris is unwavering, as Hendrick Motorsports channels its focus into optimizing every aspect of the program.
The Road Ahead for Hendrick Motorsports
The conclusion of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series has left Hendrick Motorsports with renewed momentum and sky-high confidence, thanks to standouts like Kyle Larson, William Byron, Chase Elliott, and Alex Bowman. As anticipation builds for the 2026 season and the finale in Miami, the legacy of this powerhouse appears only to be growing stronger. The optimism within the camp—held by Jeff Gordon, Rick Hendrick, and the drivers—points towards another promising chapter for Hendrick Motorsports, with fans and rivals alike watching to see just how long their dominance can continue.
