By David Morgan, Associate Editor
Brad Keselowski has not only been one of the namesakes at RFK Racing but has also driven the No. 6 Ford in the NASCAR Cup Series for the past five seasons.
That all changes when the checkered flag flies on the 2026 season.
On Tuesday, it was announced by RFK Racing that Keselowski, the 2012 Cup Series champion, who took an ownership and driving role in the team back in 2022 and has also driven the team’s flagship car since then, would be departing the organization at the conclusion of the season.
“We are big fans of Brad as a person, driver, and colleague. The impact Brad has made on our organization has been felt by everyone associated with RFK Racing; he’s undoubtedly been a terrific representative of our collective efforts both on and off the track,” said Chip Bowers, President of RFK Racing.
“He was not simply driving the No. 6 car but investing himself in the future of the team and helping us think differently about what RFK Racing could become. We have tremendous respect for Brad as a champion, competitor, and leader, and we are grateful for the energy and commitment he has brought to RFK.
“Brad has been clear about his desire to continue competing for years to come, and we respect and support him in pursuing the path that best allows him to achieve those goals. With several races still ahead, we look forward to competing together through the remainder of the season.”
Keselowski started his tenure in the Cup Series with a bang, winning his first race in just his fifth start during the 2009 Aaron’s 499 at Talladega while driving on a part-time basis for James Finch.
The following season, Keselowski would join Team Penske full-time, taking over the No. 2 car and driving it to 34 wins and the 2012 title before he made his move over to RFK Racing to take over partial ownership and to pilot the team’s lead car.
Since Keselowski came on board at RFK, he has visited victory lane just once in those five seasons, winning the 2024 spring race at Darlington, as well as scoring 25 top-five finishes and 55 top-10 finishes along the way.
Through 30 races this season, Keselowski currently sits 18th in points, having missed the Chase while his two teammates made it into the postseason.
Where Keselowski will take his driving talents to in 2027 was not immediately available as he continues to explore his options. It was also ambiguous on what the split means for Keselowski’s future as an owner in the Cup Series.
The team noted in its press release that it will “collaboratively and mutually work through the appropriate next steps regarding [Keselowski’s] existing ownership interest in the organization, and the team supports his desire to explore his career opportunities elsewhere.”
RFK added that it is still committed to racing as a three-car team in 2027 with drivers Chris Buescher and Ryan Preece as they seek a driver to replace Keselowski in the No. 6 car as well as a new head of competition, a role that Keselowski currently holds with the team.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished at RFK over the past five years and grateful for the people I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside, including at Roush Enterprises and Fenway Sports Group,” Keselowski added in a statement separate from RFK.
“So many great people have poured a tremendous amount into the competitive and technical transformation of this team, and I’ll always value the relationships we’ve built, everything we’ve experienced together, and what I learned as a co-owner and as the head of competition.
“I’m nowhere near ready to be done as a driver. I still have a lot I want to accomplish in this sport, and I’m looking forward to what comes next.
“I’m thankful for everyone who has been part of this journey and for the fans who continue to support me. I look forward to sharing future plans when the time is right.”
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