Following a disappointing 2025 season marked by poor performances and an early playoff elimination, Alex Bowman’s No. 48 Ally team has initiated a sweeping reorganization aimed at reviving its competitiveness in 2026. This bold reset comes as Bowman enters the final year of his contract and looks to reverse a trend of declining results.
Comprehensive Staff Changes to Strengthen Team Performance
Bowman admitted the previous season was difficult and acknowledged the extensive steps taken to improve results next year. With the exception of himself, crew chief Blake Harris, and spotter Kevin Hamlin, the entire team roster has been revamped. Jonas Bell has been hired as lead engineer, arriving from Kaulig Racing, while Nick Kerlin assumes the role of car chief after working with Hendrick’s part-time No. 9 team. The prior working relationship between Harris and Kerlin at Furniture Row Racing is expected to facilitate smoother teamwork during this transition.
Midseason Adjustments Laid Groundwork for Future Success
The restructuring began late in the 2025 playoffs, when a new tire changer, tire carrier, and jackman were introduced at Bristol. Although pit crew efficiency improved after these additions, the enhancements came too late to affect the season’s overall disappointing outcome. Bowman concluded the year 13th in the points standings and was eliminated in the Round of 16, including a crash at Daytona and multiple subpar finishes early in the playoffs. Despite an eighth-place finish at Bristol, it was insufficient to advance further.
Performance Metrics Highlight Need for Overhaul
The season’s statistics reveal the challenges Bowman’s team faced: he posted six top-five finishes and sixteen top-ten results, yet his average finishing position was the worst since joining Hendrick Motorsports. Notably, his only victory this season was at the Chicago Street Course in July 2024, making him the sole Hendrick driver who failed to reach Victory Lane in 2025.
New Facilities and Resources Aim to Support Driver and Crew Well-Being
As the team rebuilds, Hendrick Motorsports is investing broadly in resources, including a partnership with Atrium Health to create a 35,000-square-foot athletic center tailored to motorsports athletes. Located near Bowman’s training base, the facility provides specialized training, recovery zones, nutrition services, and dedicated spaces such as locker rooms, therapy rooms, and film analysis areas for over 50 pit crew members and other employees in Charlotte.
Bowman emphasized the personal impact of the recovery resources, recalling his injury at Michigan and difficult recovery period before subsequent races. He noted,
“I think the recovery side of things is probably the biggest thing for me,”
and added,
“This place would have been really helpful.”
– Alex Bowman, Driver
Nutrition services also sparked Bowman’s interest. He discussed the challenges of maintaining healthy eating habits during rigorous travel schedules filled with flights, post-race demands, and limited food options. Bowman confirmed,
“Yeah, for sure,”
when asked if he planned to use the nutrition offerings, acknowledging how travel can disrupt dietary discipline.
The Road Ahead: A Crucial Season for Bowman and No. 48
With major roster changes, new cutting-edge support facilities, and the weight of a contract year, 2026 stands as a pivotal moment in Bowman’s career at Hendrick Motorsports. The team’s overhaul is an explicit response to recent struggles, aiming to restore competitiveness and consistency. As preparations conclude, the coming season will test whether this extensive reset can translate into improved results on the track and renewed momentum for Bowman’s No. 48 squad.
Speaking with the @TeamHendrick drivers today, it’s clear that the new Atrium Health facility streamlines many things for them, especially recovery and nutrition.
Thoughts from Alex Bowman and William Byron. I need to transcribe Chase Elliott’s audio still, but he’s excited… pic.twitter.com/XS3C2jYhuI— John Newby (@JohnNewby_) January 22, 2026
