Hendrick Motorsports announced Tuesday afternoon that Alex Bowman will replace the retiring Jimmie Johnson as the NASCAR Cup Series driver of the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE beginning with the 2021 Daytona 500.
With the announcement, Bowman will also bring his current Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Greg Ives with him back the No. 48 Chevrolet team next season. Ives is no stranger to the No. 48 team, winning five Cup Series championship while serving as the No. 48 team engineer from 2006 – 2012.
Ives, 41, was part of 42 wins, 113 top-five finishes and 21 pole positions with the team before beginning a successful career as a crew chief that has included the 2014 NASCAR Xfinity Series title and five Cup-level race wins. Together, he and Bowman have secured three straight playoff berths and delivered a victory in each of the last two seasons.
Bowman, 27, is enjoying a banner year at NASCAR’s pinnacle level. Entering Sunday’s Bank of
America ROVAL 400 at Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway, the Tucson, Ariz. Native is firmly in the Cup Series Playoffs.
He punched his 2020 playoff ticket with a dominating victory at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway on
March 1.
“We have tremendous faith in this team,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “Every season, Alex gets better. Not only do we see it in the statistics, but his confidence and leadership have truly blossomed.
“Today he’s a proven winner and playoff contender, and his best years are ahead. Greg has won championships and races, and he brings the No. 48 pedigree that’s invaluable. When you add in the amazing enthusiasm and support from Ally, it’s quite a combination. Their partnership makes it all possible, and we look forward to celebrating many successes together in the future.”
For the past two seasons, Ally has been the sole primary sponsor of the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports team. Last October, Ally and Hendrick Motorsports extended their relationship through 2023.
Ally will continue to be a full-season partner for Bowman.
Johnson who next month at Phoenix (Ariz.) Raceway will compete his final full-time season aboard the No. 48 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports believes Bowman is the perfect driver to fit the slot.
“Alex is absolutely the right driver to carry on the legacy of the No. 48 – and he deserves a sponsor as committed as he is,” said Andrea Brimmer, chief marketing and public relations officer for Ally.
“He’s young, hungry to win and ready to give it all he has. We’re eager to make the most of his energy and dedication to build more momentum for racing, find new ways to disrupt the sport and help broaden NASCAR’s reach even further.”
Bowman is eager for his newest assignment at Hendrick Motorsports and honored to be picked to replace Johnson next season is what he has worked for his entire life.
“I’ve worked my entire life to be in a situation like this,” Bowman said. “The opportunity to drive a legendary car like the ‘48’ with incredible support from Ally, it truly can’t get any better.
“I’m excited to build on my relationship with Greg, who is a championship-caliber crew chief and knows first-hand what the No. 48 is all about. The pieces are in place, and I’m grateful to Mr. Hendrick and everyone at Hendrick Motorsports and Ally. We’re ready to do it right.”
Bowman also spoke the respect he has for the retiring seven-time Cup Series champion Johnson.
“I can’t put my respect for Jimmie into words,” added Bowman. “To me, the No. 48 team’s legacy is about winning, but also how you go about your business. It’s leadership, confidence, work ethic, being a professional and holding yourself to a higher standard. No one will ever be Jimmie, and he’s given us a championship blueprint to follow.”
Hendrick Motorsports says plans for their No. 88 team will be announced at a later date.
I’ve had 19 mind blowing seasons in the 48, now it’s your turn @alexbowman88. I know I’m leaving her in great hands brother. #DoItRight pic.twitter.com/Rv4YFWbJhT
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) October 6, 2020
The 48 has a strong legacy already. I’m excited to have the chance to create one of my own with @allyracing. #DoItRight pic.twitter.com/jCQEfI2yOx
— Alex Bowman (@AlexBowman88) October 6, 2020
Follow Chris Knight on Twitter @Knighter01.
