The upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season ushers in major changes with a new set of regulations, prompting drivers to adapt to redesigned race cars during early tests at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and Bahrain International Circuit. Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has voiced dissatisfaction with the new car’s handling, sparking speculation about his future in the sport. Despite being under contract through 2028, Verstappen reportedly holds options to leave after 2026 and has started investigating opportunities outside Formula 1, raising questions about his next move.
Brad Keselowski Extends Invitation to Verstappen in NASCAR
Recognizing Verstappen’s interest in other motorsport avenues and leveraging his team’s partnership with Ford, RFK Racing team owner Brad Keselowski announced that his NASCAR Cup Series team has an available ride ready for Verstappen. Keselowski’s team currently fields three full-time Ford entries driven by Keselowski himself (No. 6), Chris Buescher (No. 17), and Ryan Preece (No. 60), and recently added a fourth car (No. 99) for Corey LaJoie in the Daytona 500.
We have a @FordRacing cup car ready to go. Feel free to DM when you’re ready Max https://t.co/h0fmkSgKiB
This offer signals a rare opportunity for Verstappen to transition, even temporarily, into NASCAR competition if he chooses to explore a different racing discipline. Although NASCAR has seldom experienced entry lists exceeding start positions outside of major events like the Daytona 500, Verstappen’s potential participation would certainly attract significant attention.
Context of RFK Racing’s 2026 NASCAR Line-Up
RFK Racing’s season opened with the enhanced four-car lineup at the Daytona 500 hosted at Daytona International Speedway. Corey LaJoie, piloting the No. 99 Ford, failed to qualify following a last-lap crash during the America 250 Florida Duel qualifier. The established drivers—Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher, and Ryan Preece—continue to compete full-time, maintaining the team’s strong presence in the Cup Series.
Implications for Verstappen and Motorsports Crossover
Whether NASCAR racing holds a concrete place in Verstappen’s plans remains uncertain, though Keselowski’s invitation underscores an openness to cross-discipline participation. Given Formula 1’s new season commencing March 8 at Albert Park Circuit in Australia, Verstappen could theoretically find windows to engage with NASCAR during breaks in the F1 calendar. Apple TV’s broadcast rights for Formula 1 further amplify global motorsport exposure, potentially benefiting any driver considering multi-series involvement.
This intersection of top-tier motorsport series highlights evolving career pathways and the fluidity of driver opportunities in 2026. Verstappen’s decisions could influence both F1’s competitive landscape and NASCAR’s international appeal, while Keselowski’s offer puts a spotlight on collaborative ventures between racing communities previously seen as distinct.
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
