The prolonged legal dispute involving NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson and Rick Ware Racing has finally come to an end, bringing relief to many, especially Cup Series veteran and RFK Racing co-owner Brad Keselowski. This resolution allows Brad Keselowski RFK Racing Charter holders to have clarity and security regarding the No. 60 team’s future participation in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Resolution Ends Charter Dispute Affecting Brad Keselowski’s Team
Following a lengthy period filled with uncertainty and courtroom proceedings, NASCAR Hall of Famer Jimmie Johnson confirmed that Legacy Motor Club (LMC) and Rick Ware Racing (RWR) reached a confidential settlement concerning their charter disagreement. Both organizations have shifted their focus from legal battles to pursuing growth and competitive success on the track. This development directly impacts RFK Racing, whose No. 60 car, driven by Ryan Preece, had been caught in the middle of the conflict.
The dispute initially arose when Legacy Motor Club sought to acquire a third charter from Rick Ware Racing to facilitate its expansion. While RWR had agreed to provide a charter for the upcoming season, negotiations collapsed when Rick Ware Racing declined to sell a charter for the 2026 season. This breakdown prompted Johnson and LMC to file a lawsuit, fueling tension and uncertainty across the teams involved, including those under the RFK Racing umbrella.
Assurance Secured for RFK’s No. 60 Team and Driver
The settlement has positively impacted the prospects of RFK Racing’s No. 60 team and its driver, Ryan Preece. After the resolution was confirmed, FOX Sports reporter Bob Pockrass relayed a statement from an RFK representative regarding the status of their charter. When asked about the outlook for the No. 60 car, the team responded:
“We can confirm driver and partner agreements are in place for the 60 team. We are happy to continue our charter agreement as Rick Ware Racing and Legacy Motorsports have indicated that contracts will be honored.”
— Bob Pockrass, Reporter
This reassurance confirms that the existing charter arrangement will remain intact, enabling Preece and the team to focus on racing rather than legal uncertainties.
Details of the Charter Ownership and Dispute Timeline
Rick Ware Racing currently owns two NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) charters: one dedicated to Cody Ware’s No. 51 Ford and another leased to RFK Racing for the No. 60 car. The dispute largely stemmed from differing interpretations of when a charter transfer was supposed to take place. In April, reports surfaced that Rick Ware Racing expected the transfer to occur for the 2027 season, while Jimmie Johnson and his associates contended it was meant for 2026. This difference in timing was at the heart of the legal conflict.
Preece’s No. 60 vehicle operates under a charter leased from RWR to RFK, with the next season covered by RWR’s other charter on loan. Reliable sources indicate that Legacy Motor Club is honoring the agreement between Rick Ware Racing and RFK Racing, which settles doubts about the No. 60 team’s eligibility going forward.
Impact of the Settlement on RFK Racing and the NASCAR Landscape
With this legal obstacle cleared, RFK Racing, under the ownership of Brad Keselowski, can move ahead confidently. The charter confirmation assures the No. 60 team’s continued presence in the series, allowing Ryan Preece to concentrate fully on racing without distractions from contractual disputes. This peace of mind benefits not only RFK Racing but also supports Legacy Motor Club’s expansion plans, enabling both teams to shift efforts toward their on-track ambitions.
The resolution highlights how crucial charters are within NASCAR’s competitive structure, as they directly affect teams’ abilities to compete and plan for the future. Stakeholders across the sport will likely monitor the post-settlement period closely to gauge how this agreement influences competition and team dynamics during upcoming seasons.
RFK spokesman: “We can confirm driver and partner agreements are in place for the 60 team. We are happy to continue our charter agreement as Rick Ware Racing and Legacy Motorsports have indicated that contracts will be honored.” https://t.co/zAw2STRMJV
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 20, 2025
