Ryan Preece was on the verge of leaving NASCAR after his team, Stewart-Haas Racing, shut down at the end of 2023. His path seemed uncertain until Brad Keselowski and RFK Racing offered a last-minute opportunity that reignited his career. This pivotal moment altered the trajectory of Preece’s professional life just as he had begun preparing to move on from racing.
How Brad Keselowski’s Intervention Revived Ryan Preece’s NASCAR Journey
In 2022, Ryan Preece joined Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) as a test and reserve driver before securing a full-time seat in 2023. Despite his promise, Preece finished the year without a race win and only one top-five finish. When SHR faced financial difficulties and ultimately closed their team, Preece found himself without a ride and little hope of finding a competitive seat elsewhere. His performance in his first full SHR season did not give him a strong bargaining position to join another top-tier team.
At that difficult crossroads, Preece had essentially given up on continuing in NASCAR. He began searching for homes in Connecticut and was ready to transition away from racing entirely. However, Brad Keselowski, owner of RFK Racing, reached out unexpectedly. He offered Preece the chance to drive the newly formed third car for RFK Racing, presenting an opportunity that Preece hadn’t anticipated.
Reflecting on this turning point, Preece recalled the moment:
“There were some rumblings about everything coming together with RFK. Brad calls me and says, ‘Hey, if there was an opportunity to start a third car, would you have any interest?’ I’m thinking to myself, Yeah. Ultimately, it ended up working out, and I really thought I was moving back to Connecticut—going to be looked at like this guy that could never do it.”
—Ryan Preece, on Dale Jr. Download
This twist of fate helped Preece cancel his relocation plans and remain in the sport, avoiding the stigma of being a driver who could not succeed in NASCAR. Keselowski’s faith provided both a lifeline and a fresh start for the 34-year-old competitor, who was then able to join RFK Racing in the #80 car.
The Early Struggles and Financial Burdens on Ryan Preece’s Racing Path
Ryan Preece’s racing career began at age seven, driving quarter-midget karts and progressing through junior series into professional ranks. His father operated a modest plumbing and HVAC business in their hometown, which limited the family’s ability to support the costly demands of a racing career. Recognizing the financial strain, Preece made it a point to contribute and not let his family suffer economically because of his ambitions.
He took on various jobs to help alleviate the burden while continuing to develop as a driver, aiming to build his career independently without jeopardizing his family’s stability. This determination to handle the financial pressures personally has been a defining feature of his journey.
“I saw the financial burden that it was… And as you know, racing’s expensive. So, I didn’t want my father or my family to go broke because we were racing. I wanted to find my own way, I wanted to build it up without (anyone suffering financially).”
—Ryan Preece
Ryan Preece’s Resilience Amid NASCAR Challenges
Despite the hardships, Preece’s resilience has remained steadfast. His willingness to face setbacks head-on and continue pushing forward is evident in how he navigated his rough times. The closure of SHR and uncertainty over his future did not break his resolve, especially after receiving a crucial opportunity from Keselowski and RFK Racing.
As Preece competes in the 2025 season, he is striving to rebound with stronger results and improved performances. His journey exemplifies how perseverance and timely support can change a driver’s career course.
The Broader Impact of Keselowski’s Support on NASCAR Careers
Brad Keselowski’s decision to extend a hand to Ryan Preece highlights the significance of networking and belief within NASCAR’s competitive environment. It demonstrates how a single call can revive talent that might otherwise be lost due to circumstances beyond a driver’s control. For Preece, Keselowski’s faith meant more than just a ride—it was a validation of his skills and potential.
This moment also serves as a reminder to teams and drivers alike about the importance of giving deserving athletes the chance to prove themselves and continue contributing to the sport.
