Brad Keselowski, driver of the #6 car and co-owner of RFK Racing, secured clearance to participate in the 2026 Daytona 500 after undergoing a critical approval test on February 9. The 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion’s return was uncertain following a broken femur he sustained during a ski accident in December, but his positive update has reassured fans and the racing community ahead of the season-opening event.
In a video shared by RFK Racing, Keselowski reflected on the challenges he faced while recovering from the injury he suffered just eight weeks earlier. The 41-year-old driver explained that although there were many unknowns about his future in racing, his sole focus was regaining full strength to race in the Daytona 500 this year.
Keselowski described the rigorous rehabilitation process as demanding and painful, emphasizing how relearning basic movements was as difficult as the physical recovery itself.
Rehab isn’t glamorous. It’s long days, lots of pain, and relearning movements you never thought you didn’t know,
Brad Keselowski, Driver and Co-owner of RFK Racing
Keselowski is still pursuing his first victory in the Daytona 500 after 17 attempts, with his best result being a third-place finish in 2014. At the end of his video message, he announced with determination that he had been cleared to race this season.
The Daytona 500 matters, this season matters, my team matters, and I wasn’t going to watch it from the sidelines. Today, I was cleared to race. I’m back. See you in Daytona,
Brad Keselowski, Driver and Co-owner of RFK Racing
Shortly after posting the announcement video, Keselowski took to X to thank those who supported his recovery journey, including family, his pit crew, medical professionals, and fans.
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,
Brad Keselowski, Driver and Co-owner of RFK Racing
Details Surrounding Keselowski’s Ski Accident and Recovery
The 2026 NASCAR season faced early uncertainty for Keselowski after RFK Racing announced on December 19 that he suffered a broken femur during a ski trip. The injury required surgery, which was successful, but raised questions about his ability to start the season on schedule.
Despite the severity of the injury, Keselowski remained motivated and vowed to put in the hard work necessary to return behind the wheel for the iconic race known as The Great American Race.
I’m grateful for the medical team who took great care of me and for the support system around me. My attention now is fully on recovery. I’m motivated to get back to full strength as quickly as possible and will work relentlessly to be ready for Daytona,
Brad Keselowski, Driver and Co-owner of RFK Racing
In Keselowski’s absence, Corey LaJoie filled in to drive the #6 car at the recent Cook Out Clash event held at Bowman Gray Stadium. LaJoie narrowly missed advancing to the main race, finishing third in the Last Chance Qualifier.
Keselowski’s Career and Future Outlook with RFK Racing
This upcoming season marks Keselowski’s 17th full-time year in the NASCAR Cup Series and his fifth year as both driver and co-owner of RFK Racing. Since joining RFK, he has earned one victory in 2024 at Darlington, a highlight that shows his team’s competitive potential.
Keselowski’s successful return from injury and clearance to compete at Daytona reinforces his resilient spirit and determination to add the elusive Daytona 500 win to his accomplished career. His recovery journey and readiness to race signal a promising start to the 2026 NASCAR season for both him and RFK Racing.
https://twitter.com/RFKracing/status/2020958546775441905
https://twitter.com/keselowski/status/2020963149126697208
RFK Racing Statement on Brad Keselowski Injury: pic.twitter.com/veACGdLpf5
— RFK Racing (@RFKracing) December 19, 2025
