Brad Keselowski will not participate in The Clash at Bowman Gray this week, despite the race being postponed to Wednesday following a winter storm in Winston-Salem. He is still healing from a broken right femur sustained after a December 18 fall during a skip trip, and several medical steps remain before he can resume driving.
When asked on Twitter about the possibility of competing in the rescheduled Clash, Keselowski responded that he currently lacks a valid NASCAR driver’s license and must complete and pass a series of specific tests later this week. Passing those tests is required to race at Daytona or anywhere else. He described the coming days as “a big week ahead.”
Key Benchmarks Needed Before Keselowski’s Return to Daytona
Keselowski has set clear health and performance criteria for his comeback. He must be free from prescribed painkillers, able to walk adequately, and demonstrate sufficient bone healing. A medical evaluation is scheduled for February 5, aiming to clear him for the Daytona 500.
Reflecting on his recovery, Keselowski stated,
“I’m not great, but I’m good,”
adding,
“I’m recovering really well. I had a major injury. I’m on a significant rehab plan to be back for the Daytona 500. … I’m now made of titanium in my leg.”
Looking Ahead After a Challenging 2025 Season
After an unproductive 2025 season where he failed to secure a single win and finished 20th in the standings, Keselowski is determined to return stronger in 2026. His last triumph came in May 2024 with a victory at the Goodyear 400 in Darlington. With his recovery progress and successful completion of NASCAR requirements, the Daytona 500 remains his clear target for a racing comeback.
Short answer- NO
Long answer- I don’t currently have a valid NASCAR driver’s license. Scheduled to take the different tests end of the week. Must pass to drive the car at DAYTONA or anywhere else.
Big week ahead https://t.co/T4Us4hVjV7
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 2, 2026
