The 2021 Cup Series season will witness many forthcoming changes in terms of drivers, crew chiefs, and teams. Among the host of them is Alex Bowman, replacing Jimmie Johnson in the Hendrick Motorsports No.48 car.

The official NASCAR Instagram handle put out a post revealing the paint scheme of Bowman’s car for the 2021 campaign. With a bold purple palette emblazoned across the vehicle, the car, at least visually, is quite something to behold.

Not so long ago, Johnson himself drove the same car for the premier team. He commented on the post, and safe to say, it seems like Bowman certainly has his predecessor’s approval!

Writing in response to the post, Johnson stated, “Strong!”

The Cup Series sees a new driver get behind the wheel of the No.48

For about 19 seasons now, audiences have gotten used to seeing the elegant Johnson step into the No.48 Chevrolet. The car has indeed given many NASCAR fans some joyous memories and, of course, a golden run of championship titles.

As a new era beckons, so should a worthy successor. In Alex Bowman, Hendrick Motorsports has a wonderful talent who has shown signs of promise in the early stages of his relatively young Cup career.

Johnson had previously spoken about Bowman and said, “Very happy for Alex, very proud of Alex. When I look at his journey to climb the ladder and to get to where he is today, that guy has had to work his guts out for his opportunity, time and time again.”

Bowman has the duty of upholding the legacy left behind by Jimmie Johnson

“Every time he’s had the opportunity, he’s made the most of it and has earned that next ride. Really proud of him. He’s going to be a great replacement in the 48 car,” concluded Johnson.

Having inherited the car, Bowman will certainly have the pressure of carrying on the reputation of the No.48. The machinery after all was instrumental in so many race victories and top-five finishes during the seven-time Cup champion’s tenure.

Bowman already secured his first Cup Series win in the 2020 season and will look to add to it in the future. Regardless of what may come ahead, he will certainly to make Johnson proud whenever the opportunities present itself.