Brad Keselowski RFK Racing sponsor Castrol will continue its partnership with the team, even after BP sold a $6 billion majority stake to Stonepeak, turning Castrol into a new joint venture. Despite this significant corporate change, Castrol is expected to support RFK Racing into the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, ensuring long-term stability for the organization.
Castrol Maintains Support Despite BP’s Major Share Sale
BP has agreed to part with 65 percent of Castrol’s global business, transferring the share to investment firm Stonepeak while retaining a 35 percent minority position. The deal, which values Castrol at $10.1 billion, is designed to help BP reduce its long-term debt but still keep a presence in the lubricants sector. The joint venture will take about a year to close, according to industry sources. Throughout this transition, Castrol’s continued presence provides reassurance for RFK Racing and its future plans.
Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing fields three teams in the Cup Series: the No. 6 with Brad Keselowski, the No. 17 with Chris Buescher, and the No. 60 with Ryan Preece. Castrol’s involvement began in 2019, quickly establishing itself as one of RFK Racing’s most reliable and visible collaborators. Industry observer Adam Stern highlighted the deal’s implications:
“@BP_plc sold a 65% majority stake of @Castrol this month to an investment firm to reduce its debt, but Castrol is still expected to remain a sponsor of @RFKracing in 2026, per the team.”
Keselowski delivered the first Castrol-themed Cup Series victory in 2024 at Darlington, racing under a throwback TOM’s scheme. Since the partnership’s inception, RFK Racing’s trio has accumulated six wins with Castrol as a title sponsor, supporting not only race victories but also Playoff entries, driver development projects, and collaborations within Ford’s broader motorsports efforts. The two parties signed an extension in early 2025 to reinforce their relationship.
Ongoing Partnership Strengthens RFK Racing’s Future
Last season, Keselowski drove Castrol colors three times, Buescher twice, and Preece in seven races, making Castrol’s branding a regular presence in the Cup garage. Alongside Castrol, critical RFK Racing backers include BuildSubmarines.com, Fastenal, Solomon Plumbing, Kroger, Esperion, Nexlizet, and Consumer Cellular. Together, these sponsors provide financial and technical strength, helping secure the future of the team and its drivers amid the fast-shifting NASCAR landscape.
Keseolowski Manages Recovery as 2026 Approaches
A potential loss of Castrol ahead of 2026 would have created added turmoil during an already challenging period for Brad Keselowski. Earlier in the winter, Keselowski, RFK Racing’s co-owner and lead driver, suffered a fractured leg in a skiing accident on a family trip. He underwent surgery and has since returned home to focus on rehabilitation, intent on being ready for next season.
Offering a glimpse into his recovery, Keselowski shared on social media:
“When you’re down but not out. PB&J time with Maize while serving broken leg bedtime sentence.”
Keseolowski’s son Maize accompanied him, highlighting the personal impact of his recovery process. With the Clash at Bowman Gray set for February 1 and the Daytona 500 following two weeks later, the team has backup drivers ready if needed. Nevertheless, RFK Racing and Ford remain optimistic about Keselowski’s return as soon as doctors clear him to compete.
Looking Ahead: RFK and Castrol Focus on 2026 and Beyond
Despite corporate upheaval and the leadership’s personal challenges, the continued support of the Brad Keselowski RFK Racing sponsor Castrol provides critical stability for the team. As NASCAR teams navigate uncertain financial and competitive environments, Castrol’s ongoing commitment—alongside a strong cast of additional supporters—poises RFK Racing for sustained success in upcoming seasons and reassures fans that the partnership will continue to fuel their pursuit of new achievements.
.@BP_plc sold a 65% majority stake of @Castrol this month to an investment firm to reduce its debt, but Castrol is still expected to remain a sponsor of @RFKracing in 2026, per the team. pic.twitter.com/j6J8tzvzWv
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) December 31, 2025
