As the 2026 NASCAR season kicks off, RFK Racing faces a significant uncertainty involving co-owner and driver Brad Keselowski’s health and performance. Keselowski suffered a fractured femur in December after slipping while exiting a vehicle at a ski resort, and this injury now poses serious questions about his readiness for the upcoming season.
Veteran motorsports journalist Jeff Gluck highlighted the injury’s impact on the team’s outlook during a recent episode of The Teardown, underscoring the doubts surrounding Keselowski’s ability to compete at full capacity throughout a demanding race schedule.
The Injury and Its Effects on Keselowski’s Performance
Keselowski’s fractured femur rendered him unable to walk initially and necessitated intensive rehabilitation over the offseason. While his resilience showed last year as he recovered from a slow start to finish 16th in points, concerns remain whether his recovery will allow him the endurance and consistency needed for playoff contention this season.
Gluck expressed his uncertainty on Keselowski’s prospects for the playoffs and noted that teammates Chris Buescher and Ryan Preece currently appear to be the strongest candidates for postseason appearances.
You have a big question mark immediately hanging over the team,
Jeff Gluck, Motorsport Journalist
I just don’t know what this injury is going to do,
Jeff Gluck, Motorsport Journalist
Medical Clearance and Cautious Steps Toward Full Competition
Keselowski recently passed a medical evaluation during an on-track test in Charlotte, clearing him to compete at the Daytona 500. He described the moment as pivotal after months of dedicated recovery efforts.
Getting cleared was a huge moment for me,
Brad Keselowski, Driver
You put in the work, you trust the process, but until you hear that final ‘yes,’ nothing is guaranteed.
Brad Keselowski, Driver
His careful approach to recovery led him to skip the preseason Clash at Bowman Gray, emphasizing that rushing back too soon would have been unwise.
I didn’t want to rush back,
Brad Keselowski, Driver
If rehab went perfectly, we’d barely have time to test. That seemed super foolish.
Brad Keselowski, Driver
Ongoing Recovery and the Drive to Return Strong
Despite setbacks, Keselowski describes his recovery progress as steady and hopeful.
I’m not great, but I’m good,
Brad Keselowski, Driver
I had a major injury… I’m now made of titanium in my leg.
Brad Keselowski, Driver
After a winless 2025 season that saw Keselowski miss the playoffs, the veteran aims to end his drought with a strong run in 2026, targeting his first victory in the Daytona 500, a race known as the Great American Race. His last win took place in May 2024 at Darlington.
Implications for RFK Racing’s Championship Hopes
Keselowski’s condition carries broader consequences for RFK Racing’s competitiveness this season. As both a leading driver and team co-owner, his ability to perform at peak levels will largely determine the team’s championship potential. If he can return fully healthy, RFK Racing gains a proven contender and experienced leader. Otherwise, the team may rely more heavily on Buescher and Preece to carry their playoff ambitions.
With the Daytona 500 approaching, Keselowski’s recovery remains one of the sport’s most closely watched narratives, holding significant implications for RFK Racing’s success in 2026.
