Earnhardt faces the future at 2018 88 car reveal

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is asked every race weekend how it feels that his career is winding down. But that reality struck more of a cord with Earnhardt on Thursday night as he went from headliner to sidekick.

Retiring at season's end, Alex Bowman will step into Earnhardt's ride at Hendrick Motorsports. Introduced together at the Charlotte Convention Center where Hendrick Motorsports was unveiling its 2018 line-up and Daytona 500 paint schemes, both walked to and stood next to a car that featured ... Bowman's name above the door.

"It's weird," said Earnhardt. "It's weird to be here and not be talking about the future. Not be talking about next year."

"It's definitely a new feeling for sure. Little sad," Earnhardt continued. "I'm super excited for Alex, and I'm reminded of that excitement when we do things like this. As much as it's a little sad for me, it reminds me what's great to look forward to."

Moments Earnhardt hopes to be a part of. While he'll cover the second half of the NASCAR season in the NBC Sports booth, Earnhardt has expressed interest in remaining active with the No. 88 team and being there for Bowman.

Having spent countless hours working in the shop at Hendrick, Earnhardt called on Bowman to replace him when he suffered a concussion late last year. The two have continued to forge a bond since with Earnhardt continually speaking highly of the 24-year-old for both his work on and off the track and how he's earned the opportunity awaiting him.

Those emotions were apparent on Earnhardt as he watched Bowman be the center of attention. Seeing very clearly the near future of Hendrick Motorsports is one without him in it.

"There was so much momentum with him and his future and the potential that he might get that opportunity with Rick [Hendrick, car owner], so moments like this are reminders it's really happening. And he's got to pinch himself," Earnhardt said.

"I'm excited for him. Can't wait to see what they can do in the car and [to] get a couple of races under their belt. [Tonight] is cool."