Alex Bowman out, Josh Berry to fill in

Alex Bowman will miss at least the next three NASCAR Cup Series races after sustaining injuries in a dirt racing crash Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Hendrick Motorsports announced Josh Berry will pilot the No. 48 in Bowman’s absence.

It’s Berry’s second fill-in stint this year. After Chase Elliott broke his leg in March, Berry raced his No. 9 Chevrolet five times. Berry’s best finish was second at Richmond.

Alex Bowman is ninth in driver’s points following Sunday’s race at Talladega Superspeedway.

Alex Bowman issued the following statement Wednesday:

Rick Hendrick issued the following statement Wednesday on Bowman’s injury and absence:

“We’re relieved Alex is home, in good spirits and getting world-class treatment. Giving him ample time and the foremost resources to heal is our top priority. He’s having a tremendous season, and the No. 48 is at the top of its game. We know what Josh is capable of in the race car and that Blake (Harris, crew chief) and the team will continue operating at a high level until Alex is ready to return. He has our full, unequivocal support.”