Hendrick Motorsports driver Alex Bowman's future in the NASCAR Cup Series remains unclear. The No. 48 driver's future is still in the dark as HMS prodigy Corey Day waits for his turn.

“A lot has been discussed about Alex Bowman and his status with the team and whether Alex is going to come back for 2027 or not," renowned NASCAR expert Jordan Bianchi said, via The Daily Downforce on June 18.

Bowman has not been at his very best in recent times, as his last win came in July 2024. When compared with the likes of Chase Elliott, William Byron, and Kyle Larson, the No. 48 driver has been Hendrick Motorsports' weakest link.

As a result, the team is likely to look for a replacement.

"That is still up in the air. Nothing has been settled, but the team would like to see Alex Bowman return next year. He has proven that in the right situation, he can win races, and the sponsor Ally likes him a lot," Bianchi further added.

Ally Financial has been a long-term business partner of Hendrick Motorsports, and removing Bowman from the team might end it. Moreover, Bowman has also been reliable at times, spearheading the team when everyone else failed.

However, Bowman has yet to deliver a worthy performance coming into the 2026 season.

Meanwhile, Byron has had championship appearances for four consecutive years, Larson picked up a second title last year, and Elliott became the only driver from HMS to win races this season.

All of these make Bowman's future at HMS vulnerable. Amid this, the rise of Corey Day makes his claim even shakier.

The 20-year-old prodigy, who raced under the HMS banner in the Truck and Cup Series under part-time obligation, is a serious contender for the seat.

NASCAR expert doubles down on Corey Day’s future in HMS

Renowned NASCAR expert Freddie Kraft shared his thoughts on Corey Day's future at Hendrick Motorsports. During his appearance on the Door Bumper Clear podcast, Kraft explained why he considers Day a serious candidate for the 48 car.

"I would've thought Corey Day was a year away from getting in the 48 car, or at least getting a chance to get in the 48 car," Kraft said in May. "I think that there's some serious conversations as to whether he might get in that car next year now. If you have a seat, and you have a guy you think's talented enough, why would he not get in the car?"

Currently, Corey Day is racing for Hendrick Motorsports in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series under full-time obligation. He drives the No. 17 Chevrolet Camaro SS, and is in third place in the Drivers' Standings with two wins to his name.

Do you think Corey Day will replace Alex Bowman at Hendrick Motorsports? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Sabyasachi Biswas

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit