Brad Keselowski will not participate in The Clash at Bowman-Gray Stadium after suffering a broken right femur, RFK Racing confirmed, prompting Corey LaJoie to fill his seat for the event scheduled in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This Brad Keselowski injury update arrives as Keselowski sets his sights on recovering in time for the upcoming DAYTONA 500, aiming to return when points are on the line.
Keselelowski’s Accident and Medical Recovery
The injury occurred in December, not during skiing itself but when Keselowski slipped on ice while exiting a vehicle during a family trip, resulting in a sheared femur that required immediate surgery. The Rochester Hills, Michigan native experienced numbness in his right thigh initially, stating that while his foot, ankle, and calf remained functional, there was a complete loss of sensation in part of his upper leg.
“When I first had the injury, I had no feeling in my right leg from my knee up to my hip,”
Brad Keselowski explained to FOX Sports.
“My foot and ankle and all that was good. My calf was good, but I couldn’t feel any of my quad or any of that stuff.”
– Brad Keselowski, Driver
Keselowski will focus on regaining strength, with his return to racing contingent upon passing a medical exam at Charlotte Motor Speedway on February 5. Approval will depend on his ability to move without pain medication, demonstrate mobility both in and out of the car, and evidence of bone healing.
LaJoie’s Interim Role and Racing Credentials
With the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in need of an experienced driver, Corey LaJoie—a seasoned NASCAR Cup Series competitor and RFK Racing reserve—will pilot the car during The Clash on February 1. LaJoie brings notable Bowman Gray Stadium experience, having captured a victory at the track in the 2012 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East event for his family’s team.
“I’m happy for Corey to get this opportunity. I can’t wait to see what he does with it.”
– Brad Keselowski, Driver
The February exhibition will offer LaJoie a chance to demonstrate his abilities in the RFK Racing machine, continuing his active career while supporting the team during Keselowski’s recovery.
Keselelowski’s Plan for Daytona 500 Comeback
Determined to finally earn a win at the prestigious Daytona 500 after multiple near-misses, Keselowski is prioritizing recovery and preparation for the season’s first points race. He and his rehabilitation team are committed to ensuring a safe and competitive return.
“I’m really proud of the team of people I have doing the rehab and the race team is working hard,”
Keselowski told FOX Sports. – Brad Keselowski, Driver
Looking Ahead for RFK Racing and Fans
The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium is set for Sunday, February 1 at 8:00 PM ET on FOX, with Corey LaJoie at the wheel and Keselowski watching from the sidelines. The team will monitor Keselowski’s recovery closely as the DAYTONA 500 approaches, while fans eagerly anticipate his return to top-tier NASCAR competition. RFK Racing and the NASCAR community remain optimistic about his progress and the potential for a successful comeback.
