Austin, Texas — Brad Keselowski, who suffered a broken femur in a skiing accident last December, has made an impressive comeback, competing in the Daytona 500 and currently holding 10th place in the NASCAR Cup Series standings after the initial two races of the season. The upcoming DuraMax Texas Grand Prix, set for March 1 at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), poses a distinct challenge due to its 2.4-mile technical road course emphasizing tight turns and braking zones, unlike the drafting tracks of the earlier races.
Backup Driver Ready, but Keselowski Insists on Finishing the Race
To prepare for the possibility that Keselowski might not complete the entire race at COTA, RFK Racing announced Joey Hand as a standby driver. Hand, notable for his 2011 24 Hours of Daytona co-victory and a 2024 career-best 4th place finish at the Chicago Street Race, remains ready to step in if needed. Despite this, Keselowski clearly communicated his determination to complete the full distance on social media on February 27, showing confidence in his recovery progress.
Results after the last few days of simulator, go karting and X-Rays say—-> https://t.co/TgCP4YOOFt pic.twitter.com/TRcYJtkANo
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 27, 2026
Keselowski Shares His Preparation and Mindset Ahead of COTA
Keselowski described his recent training efforts, including simulator time and go-kart practice, which helped him adapt to the pain and prepare physically for the demanding track conditions.
I’ve been in simulators and I got really comfortable with the pace I had,
Keselowski said.
Went go-karting, got really comfortable with being able to take the pain, so just go do it.
During the media session on February 28, he reiterated his commitment to racing the entire event and confirmed there had been no need to rehearse a driver swap with Hand, underscoring his resolve.
I have no intention of getting out,
Keselowski stated.
He acknowledged the physical demands of the track, emphasizing how challenging Circuit of the Americas is on drivers, especially given its numerous curves, curb strikes, and intense braking zones. Keselowski said,
I’m not expecting it to be easy, but I’ve put a bunch of work in, and (I’m) ready for the challenge,
he explained.
This is a very physical racetrack, really all the road courses are, but this one in particular with all the curves and curb strikes and heavy brake zones. So a lot of workload, but I’ve put the work in and it’s time to go race.
Driver Mentality Drives Keselowski’s Determination
Keselowski emphasized that as long as he starts the race, he will earn the points and results regardless of whether he finishes or a relief driver completes the race; however, he remains focused on completing it himself. Reflecting on the mindset that fuels his return, Keselowski shared,
“I’m a race car driver,” Keselowski said.
“That’s what I do. That’s just the race car driver mentality.”
I’ve trained and worked for this my whole life, and short of just not being able to drive, I feel like I can drive. I know it’s going to hurt, but I can do it, so let’s go.
If relief becomes necessary, Keselowski indicated he would assess his condition after qualifying, though he anticipates it will take a significant issue to force a change.
It’s going to take a lot for that to happen.
When asked what would qualify as “a lot,” Keselowski explained it would mean either being unable to maintain an acceptable pace or experiencing extreme pain, saying,
I’d either be really slow or really in pain,
one of those two.
Performance in Practice and Qualifying Demonstrates Steady Progress
Keselowski completed 14 practice laps with a top speed of 86.285 mph, placing him 30th among 37 competitors. Shortly thereafter, he improved his lap to 87.346 mph during qualifying, earning the 26th starting position for Sunday’s race. His efforts showcase a disciplined return to racing amid physical challenges.
Importance of Keselowski’s Determination for NASCAR and Fans
Brad Keselowski’s commitment to race through pain at the physically demanding Circuit of the Americas underlines the resilience and dedication seen in elite motorsports athletes. His presence in the race not only reinforces his standing within the NASCAR Cup Series but also provides inspiration to fans and fellow drivers navigating setbacks. As the season progresses, Keselowski’s performance at COTA will be closely watched as a measure of his recovery and racing tenacity.
Results after the last few days of simulator, go karting and X-Rays say—-> https://t.co/TgCP4YOOFt pic.twitter.com/TRcYJtkANo
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 27, 2026
