As the new racing season approaches, RFK Racing is navigating significant uncertainty surrounding the health and performance of team co-owner and driver Brad Keselowski. Veteran journalist Jeff Gluck highlighted this concern in a recent episode of The Teardown, emphasizing that Keselowski’s offseason leg injury could have serious implications for the team’s outlook.
Keselowski, the 2012 Cup Series champion, suffered a fractured femur in December after slipping while getting out of a vehicle at a ski resort. This injury sidelined him for a period, leaving him unable to walk and requiring extensive rehabilitation. As a result, questions have arisen regarding his endurance and consistency throughout the demanding racing season.
Gluck acknowledged Keselowski’s determination, noting his ability to recover from a challenging start last year to ultimately finish 16th in points. However, he expressed caution about projecting a playoff berth for Keselowski this season, which he currently has him missing while predicting teammates Chris Buescher and Ryan Preece will make the postseason.
Despite the apprehension, there is some cautious optimism as Keselowski has been medically cleared to compete following an on-track test in Charlotte, setting the stage for his return at the Daytona 500. “Getting cleared was a huge moment for me,” Keselowski shared, emphasizing the dedication and effort put into his recovery. He had chosen to skip the preseason Clash at Bowman Gray to prioritize his rehabilitation, demonstrating a responsible approach to his comeback.
Describing his progress, Keselowski has remained positive yet realistic, stating, “I’m not great, but I’m good. I had a major injury… I’m now made of titanium in my leg.” His comeback is not just personal; it carries weight for the entire RFK Racing team, which is eager for a turnaround after a winless season in 2025.
With Keselowski’s performance potentially dictating RFK Racing’s competitive capabilities this season, the stakes are high. If he is at full strength, the team could benefit from his experience and skill, but if lingering limitations persist, the pressure may shift significantly to Buescher and Preece to maintain playoff aspirations.
As the season kicks off, all eyes will be on Keselowski, making his recovery and performance one of the most critical narratives to follow in the 2026 season. The anticipation builds as fans await to see how he will fare in the upcoming Daytona 500.