What is Denny Hamlin's outlook on Alex Bowman's playoff chances?

Denny Hamlin believes Alex Bowman must win races and accumulate significant stage points to have a shot at the NASCAR playoffs.

Why is Alex Bowman currently out of races?

Alex Bowman is sidelined due to a vertigo diagnosis, which has forced him to miss recent races with no clear timeline for his return.

How have the NASCAR playoff rules changed regarding winning a race?

The 'win and you're in' path has been de-emphasized, meaning a single victory alone is no longer a guaranteed shortcut into the playoffs; points and overall standings are now more critical.

Home / Sports / Hamlin: Bowman Needs Wins to Salvage Season

Hamlin: Bowman Needs Wins to Salvage Season

11 Mar

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Summary

Denny Hamlin suggests Alex Bowman must win races to make playoffs.
Bowman is currently sidelined with vertigo, impacting his season.
New playoff rules emphasize points over a single victory.

Hamlin: Bowman Needs Wins to Salvage Season

Alex Bowman's 2026 NASCAR season has been marred by poor performance and health issues, including a vertigo diagnosis that has sidelined him indefinitely. He has struggled in the races he's completed, finishing 40th, 23rd, and 36th. Denny Hamlin, a fellow NASCAR driver, offered a candid assessment of Bowman's playoff prospects, suggesting that based on his current performance level, making the postseason would require a significant turnaround.

Hamlin emphasized that Bowman would likely need to win a race and consistently score stage points to contend for a playoff spot. He noted that the revised playoff format, which no longer solely relies on a single win for entry, shifts the focus to overall season standings. This means accumulating points throughout the regular season is crucial for drivers like Bowman, who are facing a deficit and dealing with an extended absence from the track.

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