Dale Earnhardt Jr Says Alex Bowman ‘Was Freaking Out’ Before Getting His No. 88 Car

With Jimmie Johnson set to walk away from NASCAR, Hendrick Motorsports needed someone to succeed him. Now, the team thinks Alex Bowman is the perfect replacement for the 7-time Cup Series Champion.

In his Dale Jr Download show, Dale Earnhardt Jr spoke about the changing of the guard at Hendrick Motorsports. He said, “I think it’s a good move.

“I’m excited for Alex [Bowman], I remember when Alex was freaking out over when he was going to get that 88 car full time. When I decided that I wanted to run one more year, Alex had to make the choice to sit on the sideline that entire season.”

All that he had going for him was a verbal agreement that he would step in when Earnhardt Jr retired. At this point, Earnhardt confessed that it would be difficult for anyone to trust a verbal agreement.

What else did he say about Alex Bowman?

Dale Jr confessed that during that entire season, there were too many variables that could have worked against Bowman. For instance, Earnhardt Jr could have decided that he wanted to continue.

Another scenario could witness somebody in the Xfinity arena dominating and drawing Hendrick Motorsports’ attention.

In all honesty, Bowman had been promised quite a few things in his career only for them to go back on their word. In that respect, Dale Jr is proud to see where Alex Bowman has reached.

The driver has proven his mettle as a guy who can fight for race wins and one who can perform under pressure. At the end of the day, Dale Earnhardt Jr is happy for the driver and hopes that Hendrick Motorsports gives him some longevity.

Dale Earnhardt Jr said, “I want him to continue to win, be in great cars with people that are support him with great resources.”

For now, Bowman has to simply see out the remaining four races in the #88 car. When the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series concludes, Johnson will walk away and Bowman will happily take his place.