Alex Bowman, who has competed in the Chili Bowl Nationals seven times without capturing a victory, has decided to no longer race in the event and now serves solely as a team owner. In the 2025 event, Bowman entered four cars driven by Jake Swanson, CJ Leary, Kevin Thomas Jr., and Briggs Danner. This year, he reduced his involvement by fielding only two drivers, CJ Leary and Briggs Danner, under his team’s banner.
Despite the recent trend of many NASCAR Cup Series drivers branching out to races like the Chili Bowl, Bowman’s withdrawal as a driver comes with a clear explanation.
Physical Discomfort Led Bowman to Stop Driving Midgets
Bowman has shared that the main reason behind stepping away from racing midget cars is physical discomfort due to his body size. He said,
“I think the biggest thing for me in the midget side of things is that I just don’t fit. My knees are in the steering box so bad. I am super uncomfortable driving the race car,”
explaining how the cramped cockpit directly affects his ability to perform.
He further elaborated on the issue by saying,
“I can be comfortable in a seat with no safety or support, because I gain so much room. But in a seat that’s acceptable, I just don’t have enough room in the car.”
This limitation is not about a lack of skill or interest but rather the physical constraints imposed by the small dimensions of the car.
Bowman also noted,
“It’s tough. The distance from my hips and knees is long and gets my knees in the steering box really bad,”
underlining how the midget car’s design clashes with his body’s proportions.
Continuing as a Team Owner Despite Setback
Though Bowman confessed he is not the best at setting up the cars as a team owner, he still prefers this role over driving the uncomfortable midgets. His focus has shifted towards supporting other drivers and managing the team rather than competing behind the wheel in cramped vehicles.
Increased Pressure Facing Bowman in the NASCAR Cup Series
While Bowman has stepped away from midget racing, his position in the NASCAR Cup Series remains a topic of scrutiny. Hendrick Motorsports management has repeatedly emphasized that Bowman’s seat on the team is secure and that he meets their expectations. However, his race results have lagged behind those of his teammates.
The reintroduction of the Chase playoff format adds further complications. Bowman must deliver consistent performances and secure race wins to stay competitive alongside top drivers like Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Chase Elliott. Falling behind the leading pack could put his position at Hendrick Motorsports at risk, given the team’s interest in promising drivers such as Corey Day, Rajah Caruth, and Jesse Love as potential alternatives.
🎤 #NASCAR star @Alex_Bowman explains why he's stopped racing Midgets at events like the #ChiliBowl. @MpdRacing pic.twitter.com/4Ygsm9A22d
— FloRacing (@FloRacing) January 14, 2026
