Brad Keselowski, co-owner of Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing (RFK), responded on social media to four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen’s remarks about the new generation of F1 vehicles. After Verstappen expressed dissatisfaction with the redesigned 2026 F1 cars, Keselowski extended an open invitation to the Dutch driver, offering him a seat with Ford Racing in NASCAR.
The 2026 F1 season introduces significant changes overseen by the FIA, including new engine and chassis regulations that emphasize energy deployment management over raw power. These alterations have drawn mixed reactions from drivers.
Max Verstappen Voices Displeasure After Bahrain Preseason F1 Tests
At the preseason testing in Bahrain, Verstappen criticized the new cars for their increased focus on management rather than driving enjoyment. He described the experience bluntly, stating,
“To drive, not a lot of fun to be honest, I would say the right word is management.”
“So it’s not always the nicest thing to say, but I also want to be realistic as for as a driver, the feeling is not very F1-like. It feels a bit more like Formula E on steroids,” added Max Verstappen
He further shared that while winning remains important, the driving experience itself is essential at this stage of his career, saying,
“A winning car, for me, that doesn’t matter. It needs to be fun to drive as well, I think, at this stage of my career. I mean, I am, of course, also exploring other things outside of Formula 1 to have fun at,” said Verstappen
Keselowski Offers a Ford Racing Car as an Option for Verstappen
In response to Verstappen’s comments, Brad Keselowski, a veteran NASCAR competitor and RFK co-owner, posted on the social platform X, letting Verstappen know that NASCAR has an opportunity waiting for him. Keselowski wrote,
“We have a @FordRacing cup car ready to go. Feel free to DM when you’re ready Max.”
Keselowski joined Roush Fenway Racing in 2022, contributing both as a driver and business partner, which led to the team’s rebranding as Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing.
Brad Keselowski’s Journey Through Recovery and Return to NASCAR
During the winter break, Keselowski suffered a serious skiing accident resulting in a broken leg that required surgery and an extensive eight-week recovery. This injury caused him to miss the Clash at Bowman Gray, but he made a full recovery in time for the Daytona 500.
Reflecting on his recovery, Keselowski shared a message of gratitude, saying,
“So much work to get here! Special thanks to my family, the 6 crew, all the medical professionals and my fans for all your help and support ❤️😊👍🏻On to Daytona.”
He is set to start the 2026 Daytona 500 in the No. 6 Ford for RFK Racing, beginning the race from ninth position.
Potential Impact of Verstappen’s NASCAR Possibility
Kesselowski’s invitation highlights the growing conversation around cross-series driver movement, especially as changing technical regulations affect driver satisfaction in Formula 1. Verstappen’s expressed openness to exploring other forms of motorsport adds intrigue to the possibility of F1 stars venturing into NASCAR.
Should Verstappen take up Keselowski’s offer, it could introduce fresh excitement and increased viewership for NASCAR, blending the fanbases of two premier racing disciplines. Meanwhile, Keselowski is expected to continue his strong presence in NASCAR after recovering fully from his injury.
We have a @FordRacing cup car ready to go. Feel free to DM when you’re ready Max https://t.co/h0fmkSgKiB
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 13, 2026
