In a special motorsports crossover, NASCAR driver Ryan Preece made waves by serving as grand marshal at the Monster Jam season opener in Orlando, Florida, drawing a notable reaction from his RFK Racing teammate and team co-owner, Brad Keselowski. This unexpected Ryan Preece Monster Jam appearance added excitement as both NASCAR and monster truck fans turn their attention to the upcoming Daytona 500.
Preece Leads Monster Jam Festivities Before Daytona 500
On Saturday night, Ryan Preece revealed through his X (formerly Twitter) account that he was attending the opening event of Monster Jam’s 2026 season at Camping World Stadium. Series officials elevated Preece’s role from spectator to center stage by inviting him to serve as the grand marshal.
Sharing the moment online, the #60 RFK Racing Ford driver posted:
“Down in Orlando tonight for Monster Jam to get everyone fired up for the DAYTONA 500 🔥They even let me be the grand marshall”
This unique appearance allowed Preece to bridge the excitement between two motorsport communities ahead of the biggest race on the NASCAR schedule. Monster Jam, organized by Feld Entertainment, is the top event in its field, known for high-flying truck stunts and featuring icons like Grave Digger and Max-D. Typically described as the “Super Bowl of monster trucks,” the event is a staple for families and motorsports enthusiasts alike, and the festivities are broadcast to a broad audience via Monster Jam’s dedicated YouTube channel.
Keselowski’s Memorable Response and Current Recovery
Preece’s appearance drew attention from fans and drivers, but Brad Keselowski’s succinct reply stood out among the reactions. The RFK Racing co-owner offered:
“Life goals,” Keselowski commented.
Meanwhile, Keselowski himself has faced a challenging off-season after undergoing surgery for a leg injury suffered during a family ski trip last December. As a result, the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion will miss the upcoming Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium while continuing his recovery.
In response to his temporary absence, Keselowski conveyed an encouraging note to supporters, posting:
“Setbacks create comebacks!”
While Keselowski recuperates, veteran driver Corey LaJoie has been tapped to fill in for him, piloting the #6 RFK Racing Ford in the Clash. LaJoie will also serve as RFK Racing’s standby driver throughout the 2026 season if further relief is required.
Keeps Focus on NASCAR’s Busy Calendar
Brad Keselowski will undergo a medical evaluation in early February at Charlotte Motor Speedway to determine whether he is cleared to return to competition for the Daytona 500, scheduled for February 15. Despite the setback, Keselowski remains optimistic about rejoining the field, aiming for a strong campaign following a previous season that saw him finish 20th in the NASCAR Cup standings, collecting six top-5 and thirteen top-10 finishes with an average outcome of 18.5.
The recent interplay between Ryan Preece’s Monster Jam appearance and Brad Keselowski’s hopeful outlook reflects the dynamic nature of NASCAR and its stars. As the excitement builds for Daytona and both drivers prepare for the challenges ahead, the motorsports world will be watching closely, with new stories sure to develop as the season unfolds in Florida, Michigan, and beyond.
Down in Orlando tonight for Monster Jam to get everyone fired up for the DAYTONA 500 🔥
They even let me be the grand marshall pic.twitter.com/xaDSHjW1OF
— Ryan Preece (@RyanPreece_) January 11, 2026
Setbacks create comebacks! https://t.co/hqdqOIGal2
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) January 8, 2026
