Ryan Preece achieved a monumental milestone by claiming his first victory in the NASCAR Cup Series during the 2026 Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, marking the beginning of the new racing season. The 35-year-old driver, representing RFK Racing, overcame years of challenges to reach Victory Lane, making this Ryan Preece NASCAR win a significant moment for both the driver and his team.
Unexpected Triumph from a Mid-Pack Start
Entering the race in 18th position out of 23 competitors, few anticipated Preece to challenge for the win. Piloting the No. 60 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, he steadily moved through the field, demonstrating remarkable determination and skill. As the season opener unfolded under tense weather conditions and heightened competition, Preece’s drive stood out as a highlight, surprising many in the NASCAR community.
When the race concluded, his emotions overwhelmed him. Cameras captured him shedding tears as he exited his car, reflecting on the perseverance required to finally reach this career milestone. The victory was especially poignant considering Preece’s earlier concerns about his future in NASCAR, having once feared he might lose his racing seat.
Gratitude and Reflection on a Long Road to Victory
In an emotional post-race interview, Preece acknowledged the years of relentless effort that culminated in this achievement, crediting the support from key figures within his racing circle. He said,
“I don’t even know what to say. To be honest with you, it’s been a long road and to you know, it’s the Clash and but man, it’s just been years and years of grinding. Just super thankful for Brad Keselowski…. and you know, Jack Roush, the Fenway Group. Two years ago, I didn’t. I didn’t think I was going to have a job. I thought I was going back to Connecticut. I’m just super, super emotional.”
– Ryan Preece, RFK Racing Driver
This candid expression highlights not only Preece’s personal journey but also the vital role of RFK Racing’s leadership, including co-owner Brad Keselowski and team principal Jack Roush, whose continued support helped secure this breakthrough.
RFK Racing’s Return to Victory Lane
Preece’s win ended RFK Racing’s drought, marking their first victory in over a year. Keselowski, sidelined from racing after a skiing injury, took to social media to commend his team and driver for the hard-fought success. This triumph also honored the memory of Greg Biffle, a respected former driver associated with RFK Racing and the No. 60 car, who tragically passed away in a recent plane crash. The victory served as a respectful nod to his longstanding NASCAR legacy.
Joining an Exclusive Group of NASCAR Winners
This victory elevates Preece into rare company as only the third driver in NASCAR history to win the Clash before earning their first Cup Series points-paying race win. Prior to Preece, legendary drivers Jeff Gordon (1994) and Denny Hamlin (2006) accomplished the same feat. This adds a notable chapter to NASCAR history and highlights the significance of this season-opening race.
Looking Ahead: What This Win Means for Preece and RFK Racing
Ryan Preece’s first Cup Series win at the 2026 Clash underscores a turning point in his career and signifies an encouraging start for RFK Racing’s season. The victory brings optimism for the months ahead, as Preece and his team aim to build on this momentum in the highly competitive NASCAR landscape. Given the emotional intensity and the broader context of the season’s challenges, this breakthrough may inspire both the driver and team to push harder as they pursue further success.
Pure emotion from Ryan Preece after winning the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. pic.twitter.com/Syn887YkE7
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 5, 2026
