The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season felt like a statement year for Hendrick Motorsports. It served as a reminder that their dynasty isn’t fading anytime soon. William Byron led the charge, claiming the regular-season championship with a trio of victories, including his second straight Daytona 500. Right behind him, Kyle Larson turned consistency into another championship trophy – his second in five years.

Together, they restored Hendrick’s golden shine after a rocky mid-season stretch that had many questioning whether the team still had the edge. But as the year wrapped, Hendrick wasn’t just back on top. In fact, they looked untouchable. Still, according to Jeff Gordon, what unfolded behind the scenes at Hendrick was even more impressive than what the world saw on track.

Hendrick’s mid-season struggles to championship glory

Jeff Gordon confessed the outlook for Hendrick Motorsports wasn’t very promising six months ago, especially on short tracks and one-mile circuits. “I wasn’t sure if we could get one here, let alone two here. Our program on the shorter tracks, the one-mile tracks, was just not quite there,” he admitted.

And he is absolutely right. The Hendrick Motorsports team went through a major summer slump. Their star driver, Kyle Larson, went winless after his Kansas win in May. Similarly, Byron tasted victory only in August after winning the season-opener in February. Bowman and Elliott, too, had a similar story to tell.

Despite this, Gordon praised the team’s hard work and refusal to make excuses, saying, “They didn’t use it as an excuse. They were like, there’s grip to be had and work to be done. Let’s go for it.” 

As a result, all four Hendrick drivers managed to qualify for the playoffs, with Byron winning the regular season championship in between. However, the ultimate breakthrough came at the Martinsville playoff race, where William Byron clinched the win and Kyle Larson finished fourth, securing both their spots in the Championship 4. This ultimately resulted in Larson winning the Championship at Phoenix.

Gordon highlighted the importance of that performance. “The performance at Martinsville… that’s what got us here. I’m super proud of that.”

Looking ahead to 2026, the NASCAR season finale will shift to Homestead, Miami. Gordon expressed excitement about the track and Hendrick’s chances there. “Our guys love Homestead and our cars run good there. But, you’ve got to get there. Who knows what the format’s going to be. I hope we’re in the fight again. That’d be amazing.” Recently, Larson won the race at Homestead in March. Overall, the Hendrick camp has 4 wins, 4 poles, and 21 top-5s in 26 races, showcasing their stronghold.

Gordon’s words reflect a team rebounding from early-season doubts into a strong contender for next year’s championship. Now, we just have to wait and see if Hendrick Motorsports can keep that momentum rolling. After all, the expectation around the camp has shifted. This isn’t a team hoping to contend; it’s one expected to dominate.

Jeff Gordon and co. eye comeback for Alex Bowman

After a promising 2024 campaign, Alex Bowman’s 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season turned into a grind. It was defined by consistency but overshadowed by a winless streak that stretched through all 36 races. Despite flashes of pace and determination, Bowman ended the year 13th in the standings with six top-five finishes, sixteen top-tens, and two poles at Homestead and Bristol. Still, both Jeff Gordon and Rick Hendrick remain confident that Bowman is close to reclaiming his winning form, despite rumors circulating of his replacement.

Bowman’s drought-breaking win at the 2024 Chicago Street Course seemed like a turning point. He outdueled Joey Hand in damp conditions and held off Tyler Reddick’s late charge, marking his first victory in 80 starts. But just as his momentum built, a car-weight infraction at the Charlotte Roval cost him a spot in the Round of 8. A setback that lingered into 2025.

Team owner Rick Hendrick believes the No. 48 group has shown resilience through it all. “They had a good start to the year. There have been some tracks where Alex was our best car,” Hendrick said. “That team is working hard on getting better everywhere. I think they’re showing great signs.” He added that it’s natural for one driver in the camp to face a slower season, pointing out that Chase Elliott endured similar struggles before rebounding strongly.

Jeff Gordon shared Hendrick’s optimism, praising crew chief Blake Harris and the No. 48 team for their contributions to Hendrick Motorsports’ overall success. “We know that they’re very valuable, but we also know there’s things that need to be improved there. It’s a big part of our focus in this off-season, is giving Alex, Blake, the tools that they need and making sure surrounding them with all the things that can help strengthen their team and button up some of those things. I’m with Rick, I don’t think they’re that far off,” he said.

Both leaders agree. The talent is there, the chemistry is growing, and a few small adjustments could bring Bowman back into the championship mix for 2026.