“Didn’t Happen Fast Enough”- RFK Racing Insider Dissects Brad Keselowski’s Vision Behind Cup Series Expansion

Brad Keselowski’s tenure with Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing has been, not to be dramatic but, pretty revolutionary. When the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion became a co-owner in 2022, he joined a team that many viewed as past its prime. Fast-forward two years, and RFK Racing is not only back in the mix but also gearing up for its most ambitious project yet: launching a third full-time car in 2025. However, as RFK crew chief Scott Graves shared during a conversation on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, reaching this pivotal moment has been anything but straightforward.

Scott Graves reflects on RFK’s growth and challenges

When Brad Keselowski partnered with Jack Roush to rebrand the team as Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing, his vision was clear: RFK needed to grow, compete, and win. But as Graves noted, achieving that vision required patience, hard work, and a willingness to tackle unforeseen challenges.

“It shows like from our company, a dedication to the sport,” Graves explained. “Brad’s been very, very open in talking about his desire from the very beginning when he got here in 2022 that, you know, they wanted it to be a three-car team. It probably didn’t happen fast enough for him, but I think, in terms of our growth, it’s on target.” Keselowski had a slow start to his tenure as co-owner and driver of RFK, with just a single top-5 finish. But in his second season, a massive turnaround was seen.

Graves emphasized that the team’s success over the past two seasons has been instrumental in setting the stage for expansion. With five wins and 31 top-5 finishes across 2023 and 2024 between Keselowski and Chris Buescher, RFK Racing has emerged as a legitimate contender in the NASCAR Cup Series. But adding a third car comes with its own set of challenges, especially in maintaining the performance of the existing teams. “We had improved performance over the last couple of years… put us in a position to expand to a third team like that. Obviously, it’s a big challenge,” Graves admitted. “It’s something to keep that level of performance and not let that third team… slow you down. But something that you can build off of and keep that momentum going.”

The decision to expand isn’t just a logistical undertaking; it’s also a reflection of RFK’s broader ambitions. The team’s partnership with Rick Ware Racing—an arrangement that has provided essential resources like charters, cars, and pit equipment—has been a key factor in enabling this growth. As Graves put it, “It’s exciting to see that kind of growth and what we’ve been able to do here.” Now with Ryan Preece coming in, it seems like growth is Keselowski’s motto.

Brad Keselowski’s vision and Ryan Preece’s shot at redemption

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Brad Keselowski‘s leadership has been pivotal in RFK’s resurgence. From the outset, he’s been clear that the team’s future depends on its ability to adapt and innovate. The introduction of the #60 car as a part-time entry in 2024 was a strategic move—a test to gauge the feasibility of expansion without compromising the performance of the #6 and #17 cars.

“A lot goes into growth,” Keselowski explained in an earlier interview. “You’ve got to work your way into it with the talent particularly and take care of… even the capital that it takes to do it.”

While RFK’s move to a third car is a bold step, it’s also a calculated one. Ryan Preece confirmed as the full-time driver of the #60 car in 2025, represents both a risk and an opportunity. Preece’s 2024 season has been a mixed bag, with flashes of brilliance tempered by inconsistency. Five top-10 finishes, including a strong fourth-place result at Nashville, have shown his potential. However, he’ll need to deliver more consistent results to justify RFK’s investment.

Preece’s arrival also comes with significant financial backing. Reports confirm he’s bringing a $20 million sponsorship deal from Kroger, a partnership that could be a game-changer for RFK. For Preece, the opportunity is nothing short of a lifeline. After a tumultuous year that saw his former team, Stewart-Haas Racing, shutter its doors, Preece is eager to prove he belongs at NASCAR’s highest level.

Meanwhile, Brad Keselowski’s on-track performance continues to inspire confidence. In 2024, he returned to Victory Lane for the first time in three years with a win at Darlington Raceway in May, and his consistency in 2024 has further solidified his reputation as both a driver and a leader. Keselowski notched up nine top-5 and fourteen top-10 finishes in 2024.

On the other hand, Buescher had a rather underwhelming season with just a single win and a 17th-place finish in the drivers’ standings. This is coming off a three-win, 7th place-finish season in 2023, which was the best of his career. If Buescher can find his form, the duo of him and Keselowski with Preece joining them could be a sight to behold for 2025.

Adding a third car is about more than just numbers; it’s about creating a sustainable foundation for the future. With Keselowski’s strategic vision, Graves’ technical expertise, and Preece’s determination, RFK Racing is poised to make its mark in the 2025 season and beyond. The road ahead won’t be easy, but if RFK’s recent trajectory is any indication, the team is more than ready for the challenge.