Does Ryan Preece Deserve a Spot in NASCAR’s Cup Series: Ryan Preece deserves a spot in NASCAR’s Cup Series raises questions about merit and potential. Despite a commendable background and sponsorship from Kroger, he faces scrutiny due to a 187-race winless streak, which includes challenges while with Stewart-Haas Racing. Experts highlight his past achievements in other series, suggesting that performance issues often stem from equipment limitations rather than a lack of skill. As he shifts to RFK Racing, the strain intensifies. With Brad Keselowski’s support amplifying expectations, Preece’s ability to convert potential into results will be crucial for his prospects in the Cup Series.
Key Highlights
- Ryan Preece’s historical success in the lower series indicates his potential, with two wins in the Xfinity and Truck Series showing his talent.
- Keselowski’s support for Preece suggests confidence in his abilities, drawing parallels to Joey Logano’s eventual success after overcoming skepticism.
- Preece’s struggles have been largely attributed to subpar equipment rather than lack of skill, impacting his performance in the Cup Series.
- Fan skepticism remains high, especially with Preece’s performance metrics in 2024, including only one top-five finish, raising concerns about his future.
- Critics are considering emerging talents like Zane Smith as more suitable options, challenging Preece’s position within NASCAR’s Cup Series.
Brad Keselowski’s Confidence in Ryan Preece
Although Ryan Preece has faced challenges in his NASCAR Cup Series career, Brad Keselowski‘s steadfast confidence in him suggests a potential turning point. Keselowski’s commitment to empowering Preece with the necessary resources reflects a tactical vision aimed at revealing the driver’s latent potential.
“My commitment is taking someone like Ryan and putting him in that spot where he can win in and with the right resources.” – (Keselowski)
Despite Preece’s winless streak over 187 starts, including 72 consecutive races with Stewart-Haas Racing, Keselowski’s belief in Preece signals a significant opportunity for rejuvenation within RFK Racing.
Preece’s history in other series, highlighted by two wins in the Xfinity Series and two in the Craftsman Truck Series, indicates that his capabilities extend beyond the Cup level. This duality raises intriguing questions about the dynamics of success in NASCAR, where the right environment and support can catalyze performance breakthroughs.
Keselowski’s endorsement, coupled with the sponsorship of Kroger, not only boosts Preece’s credibility but also signifies a collective investment in his potential success.
Furthermore, the skepticism voiced by fans surrounding Preece’s promotion highlights the challenges inherent in competitive sports. Yet, the tangible backing from a seasoned driver like Keselowski could act as a vital counterbalance to doubt, fostering an environment favorable for growth.
As Preece prepares to drive the No. 60 Ford, it remains to be seen whether this alignment of ambition and resources will translate into the competitive edge needed to shift the narrative surrounding his career.
It's OFFICIAL official!
Expectations for Ryan Preece in 2025? https://t.co/D4gT2qUNf6
— Eric Estepp (@EricEstepp17) November 19, 2024
Ryan Preece’s Background and Keselowski’s Plans
Often underestimated, Ryan Preece’s extensive background in racing highlights his exceptional talent and potential for success in the NASCAR Cup Series. His journey reflects a remarkable path, marked by consistent performance across diverse series. As Brad Keselowski initiates the revitalization of his team, he sees Preece as a project, similar to how he once revived his career.
Preece’s accomplishments in the NASCAR Modified ranks, particularly his championship win, set a solid foundation. His statistics in the Xfinity and Truck Series further emphasize his capabilities. Remarkably, he has garnered two wins and an impressive average finish in the Truck Series, showing his ability to compete at high levels.
“He’s a highly successful Modified driver from the North East – he’s won a NASCAR Modified championship.” – (Estepp)
| Series | Key Statistics |
|---|---|
| Modified Series | NASCAR Modified Champion |
| Xfinity Series | 26 starts, 2 wins, 20 top-tens |
| Truck Series | 12 starts, 2 wins, Avg. Finish: 4.7 |
“Ryan Preece has made 26 Xfinity Series starts in good equipment…spread across 4 different seasons…He has two wins, 20 top-tens, and 13 top-fives. Those are fantastic numbers… His Truck Series career, again, he’s never been full-time, he’s only made 12 Truck starts. Guess what, he has two wins, both at Nashville. His average finish in those 12 Truck starts is 4.7. His worst career Truck finish is 11th.” – (Estepp)
Keselowski’s intention to utilize Preece’s talents mirrors the path of Joey Logano, who faced similar skepticism early in his career. Logano’s subsequent success serves as a proof of the revolutionary power of belief and resources in motorsport.
Ryan Preece’s Struggles in the Cup Series and Fan Criticism
Ryan Preece has faced considerable challenges in his NASCAR Cup Series career, often struggling to find his footing amidst less-than-competitive equipment. His tenure at JTG Daugherty Racing and Stewart-Haas Racing has been blemished by underperformance, raising questions about his potential in the series.
Analysts like Brad Keselowski and Estepp have emphasized the importance of “the right resources,” suggesting that Preece’s struggles are not solely reflective of his talent but rather the machinery at his disposal.
“When Ryan Preece has been in good equipment, he’s looked like a top prospect. Ryan Preece has never been in a good Cup Series car…JTG Daugherty was not really good. Stewart-Haas Racing fell off a cliff when Ryan Preece got there…at the start of 2023…Nobody won a race – not Preece, not Chase Briscoe, not Almirola, not even Kevin Harvick! …He was a Round of 16 exit. Preece finished 30th in points that year, Preece was 23rd.” – (Estepp)
- Inconsistent Performance: While competing in subpar equipment, he has not consistently delivered the results many anticipated.
- Team Dynamics: Stewart-Haas Racing’s decline during his tenure limited his ability to show his skills effectively.
- Limited Success: In 2023, he finished a disheartening 30th in points, which highlighted the struggles faced by the entire team.
- Fan Skepticism: Despite his potential, fans remain doubtful, often attributing his lackluster results to personal shortcomings rather than external factors.
- Pressure to Deliver: The expectation to perform at a high level without adequate resources can stifle even the most talented drivers.
Fan Backlash and Preece’s Future at RFK Racing
As Preece prepares to join RFK Racing, the scrutiny surrounding his performance intensifies, particularly given the high expectations associated with his new ride. With only one top-five and five top-10 finishes in 2024, Preece’s stats have led to a chorus of skepticism from fans, some of whom have expressed their opinions with biting remarks.
“Same ole Preece. He will probably end up costing Brad a lot of money.” – (fan reaction)
This backlash emphasizes a broader concern about whether Preece can capitalize on the investment and resources that Brad Keselowski has dedicated to revamping RFK Racing. Critics argue that Preece, despite being handed better equipment, might not enhance his performance to match the aspirations of the team or its sponsors, such as Kroger.
“I’ll be totally honest: I don’t understand why Ryan Preece gets top rides when he hasn’t shown anything to me out on the track. I mean Kroger is a big-time sponsor, and they wanted…. Ryan Preece.” – (fan reaction)
The sentiment that Preece could become a liability rather than an asset is noticeable in fan discussions, with some suggesting that other emerging talents, like Zane Smith, would have been more fitting choices for the seat. This discontent highlights a growing impatience among fans who crave results and consistency from their drivers.
“I was hoping for Zane Smith.” – (fan reaction)
As Preece gears up to compete in 2025, the road ahead appears filled with tension. The expectations are not merely about individual performance but also about proving his worth within a restructured organization keen to return to its former glory.
News in Brief: Does Ryan Preece Deserve a Spot in NASCAR’s Cup Series
The future of Ryan Preece in NASCAR’s Cup Series remains uncertain amidst mixed evaluations from experts and fan sentiment. While Brad Keselowski’s support highlights potential within Preece, ongoing struggles and criticism complicate his position at RFK Racing.
The intersection of performance, fan expectations, and team dynamics will ultimately determine whether Preece can secure a stable spot in NASCAR. Continued assessment of his capabilities and adaptability will be crucial moving forward.
ALSO READ: Ryan Preece Joins RFK Racing for 2025 Season and Sets His Sights on Victory Lane
