Keselowski Cleared to Race: A Comeback Fueled by Determination
Brad Keselowski, driver and co-owner of RFK Racing, has received medical clearance to compete in the upcoming Daytona 500, just weeks after sustaining a broken femur. The announcement, made on Monday, February 9, 2026, marks a significant milestone in his recovery and sets the stage for a thrilling start to the NASCAR Cup Series season.
The Road to Recovery
Keselowski suffered the injury on December 18th after a fall on ice. The recovery process demanded intense dedication, with the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion focusing on regaining strength and mobility. A successful medical evaluation, including an X-ray on January 30th revealing remarkable healing, and a subsequent on-track session at Charlotte Motor Speedway confirmed his readiness.
“Getting cleared was a huge moment for me,” Keselowski stated. “Knowing what Daytona means, and how hard it would have been to miss it, made this moment even bigger.”
RFK Racing’s Support and Keselowski’s Mindset
RFK Racing President Chip Bowers praised Keselowski’s commitment, noting his “focus, commitment, and attention to detail” throughout the rehabilitation process. Keselowski himself adopted a determined mindset, reportedly keeping a poster in his workout area with the mantra, “Daytona. Earned not given.”
What This Means for the 2026 Season
Keselowski drives the No. 6 Ford for RFK Racing. The Daytona 500 activities are scheduled to begin on February 12th, with qualifying and the Daytona Duel races. This clearance allows Keselowski to participate fully in the season’s opening event. Whereas Keselowski has 36 career race wins, he has only secured one victory since 2022, making a strong start to the 2026 season particularly important.
Did you know?
RFK Racing, originally Roush Racing, has been a prominent force in NASCAR since 1988, accumulating 334 race victories across multiple series.
RFK Racing’s Driver Lineup for 2026
RFK Racing fields a strong driver lineup for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, including:
- Brad Keselowski (No. 6)
- Chris Buescher (No. 17)
- Ryan Preece (No. 60)
- Corey LaJoie (No. 99 – part-time)
FAQ
Q: When did Brad Keselowski get injured?
A: December 18th.
Q: What type of injury did Brad Keselowski sustain?
A: A broken femur.
Q: Where did Brad Keselowski complete his medical evaluation?
A: Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Q: How many NASCAR Cup Series championships has Brad Keselowski won?
A: One, in 2012.
Q: What number car does Brad Keselowski drive?
A: No. 6.
Q: What manufacturer does RFK Racing use?
A: Ford.
Pro Tip
Staying informed about driver health and team updates can significantly impact your NASCAR viewing experience and fantasy league performance. Follow RFK Racing’s official website (https://www.rfkracing.com/) and NASCAR’s official channels for the latest news.
What are your predictions for Keselowski’s performance this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
