NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass teases potential Justin Haley-Hendrick alliance while confirming Alex Bowman's current stability

There had been speculation about Alex Bowman’s future at Hendrick Motorsports in the last couple of months. The recent swap between Corey LaJoie and Justin Haley likely puts to rest the rumors surrounding Bowman’s position at HMS, according to NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass.

The trade of sending Corey LaJoie to Rick Ware Racing and Justin Haley to Spire Motorsports will begin this weekend at Kansas Speedway. LaJoie was told in midseason that he won't be returning to Spire Motorsports in 2025. Haley will replace LaJoie full-time in the #7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet next season.

As Spire Motorsports and Hendrick Motorsports have a strong relationship, Pockrass hinted at a potential alliance between Haley and Hendrick in the future. The renowned NASCAR journalist feels that if Haley manages to perform well in his tenure at Spire, then it could open a gate for him to get into the Hendrick car.

Hinting a potential Haley-Hendrick alliance in coming years, Pockrass on the FOX Sports website wrote:

“So while the Haley-Spire link would make sense anyway considering Haley drove a few races for Spire in 2019, it also made sense that Haley could head to Spire with the thought that if he performs well, the path is there to get into a Hendrick car.”

Meanwhile, Pockrass also confirmed that Alex Bowman’s ride at Hendrick Motorsports is currently secure. It appears HMS is sticking with Bowman, likely banking on his win in early July at the Chicago Street Race and his recent improved performances.

“So far, Hendrick has outwardly supported Bowman and said he is its driver,” Pockrass wrote on the FOX Sports website.

Alex Bowman has put in a solid performance in the first round of playoffs. He finished fifth, 19th, and ninth in the first three races of Round of 16 and earned more points than any other driver.

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Alex Bowman opens up about Hendrick Motorsports exit rumors

The #48 HMS Chevrolet driver at Playoff Media Day earlier this month addressed rumors that he might be leaving his position at HMS. He put an end to these rumors, clearing that his rumors are rumors and his contract runs through 2026 with no plans for changes.

Speaking on HMS exit rumors, Bowman said:

“That rumor has certainly been annoying. Obviously, my contract is through the end of 2026, and all I can tell you is what my bosses have told me and that there's no plans to change anything. Rumors are just rumors. Hopefully, they'll get their announcements done so my rumors stop. As far as I know, I'm driving the 48 next year, and nothing's changing.”

Alex Bowman is contending for his first NASCAR championship this season. He is currently 11th in the 2024 NASCAR playoffs points table with 3005 points.