$200M worth Jeff Gordon approves current state of NASCAR schedule in the playoffs

Jeff Gordon recently discussed his view that NASCAR's playoff schedule this season is designed to deliver a spectacular show. The vice chairman, whose net worth is estimated at $200 million, recognized that the schedule poses challenges for drivers and teams but emphasized that from the perspective of the sport and its fans, it is exceptional.

Jeff Gordon, one of NASCAR’s most illustrious drivers, helped propel the sport into mainstream popularity. Though he retired from active racing in 2016 to focus on the advancement and success of Hendrick Motorsports, he continues to consider the broader interests of NASCAR.

Speaking to SiriusXM NASCAR ahead of the inaugural race of the playoff season at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Jeff Gordon expressed his endorsement of NASCAR's demanding schedule, stating:

"If I step back from the team aspect for the sport, what I think is going to be the best product for the fans and put on a good show then, and I certainly like what what NASCAR has done here, and difficult for the teams to... to try to execute and get through these rounds."

Jeff Gordon was confident that his Hendrick Motorsports drivers could navigate the difficult schedule effectively. While discussing the team's prospects, Jeff Gordon remarked:

"I feel like the other races that are in these rounds like Watkins Glen, like Bristol, those are excellent for us and for our drivers and our team. I certainly can't wait to get through Atlanta and see where we're at and see what we've got to go do in the next two after that because I feel confident that our teams can be really competitive and put together great results here."

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Jeff Gordon has addressed speculation regarding Alex Bowman's future with the team

Despite a notable victory at Chicago, questions have lingered about Alex Bowman's ability to retain his position on the team. He recently ended a lengthy drought of 80 races without a win, navigating the wet streets of Chicago.

As the playoffs approached, rumors surfaced about his potential move from Hendrick Motorsports to Spire Motorsports.

Jeff Gordon, however, firmly dismissed these rumors, stating as quoted by Motorsports Wire:

"Yeah, you know, don’t like to address rumors ’cause that’s what they are, but, you know, we have a lot of confidence in [Alex Bowman]. [...] Nobody wants to see them go deeper into the playoffs or go to Phoenix and compete for a championship more than we do. We believe in those guys."

Currently, Alex Bowman is ranked sixth in the playoff standings, with a 27-point buffer over the top-12 cutoff. Given his average finish of 21.4 at Watkins Glen, where the next playoff race will be held, it will be crucial to see if he can secure the necessary stage points to maintain his lead in the playoff race.