Ryan Preece credits team effort as RFK Racing rises through the ranks in the NASCAR Cup Series. A recent turnaround has put the organization in the spotlight, with strong performances that few saw coming. From pit stops to leadership changes, every detail has played a role in shaping this unexpected success. With momentum building, the focus now shifts to the next challenge. Can the team maintain this pace, or will new obstacles test their progress?
Key Highlights
- Ryan Preece praised the No. 60 pit crew for their crucial role in his ninth-place finish at Homestead-Miami.
- The pit crew’s perfect performance included an impressive 8.69-second pit stop during the race.
- Preece emphasized the pit crew’s precision and speed contributing to RFK Racing’s recent successes.
- The crew’s dedication and synchronization were highlighted as key factors in the race outcome.
- Preece’s positive remarks reflect the team’s meticulous training and commitment to excellence.
RFK Racing’s Under-the-Radar Rise
While RFK Racing might not always dominate the headlines, their steady climb in the competitive world of NASCAR is drawing attention. Known for flying under the radar, RFK Racing is now gaining momentum, a proof of their tactical development and resilience.
The inclusion of Ryan Preece to their roster brought challenges, as evidenced by his dramatic flip at the Daytona 500. However, Preece has since demonstrated his potential, achieving two consecutive top-10 finishes, a noteworthy feat that signals the team’s upward path.
This improvement is not just a stroke of luck but a result of meticulous planning and execution. As the team prepares for the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway, their focus is on building upon recent successes.
RFK Racing’s ability to transform early season struggles into tangible progress exemplifies their commitment to excellence and adaptability, positioning them as a formidable force in the NASCAR arena.
The Importance of the No. 60 Pit Crew
The skill of the No. 60 pit crew has become a cornerstone of RFK Racing‘s recent successes, highlighting the essential role these unsung heroes play in the high-stakes world of NASCAR.
In the fiercely competitive environment at Homestead-Miami, the pit crew delivered a remarkable 8.69-second pit stop, a performance that considerably contributed to Ryan Preece‘s commendable ninth-place finish in the Straight Talk Wireless 400. Such precision and speed are not merely mechanical accomplishments; they are a reflection of the crew’s steadfast dedication and synchronization, attributes that are crucial in achieving competitive advantage.
The No. 60 team threw down an 8.69 second stop at @HomesteadMiami , and @RyanPreece_ took off saying on the radio: “YOU GUYS ARE GANGSTERS.” 🔥 as he commended them on their stop.
I asked Preece about that this week – as he looks to @MartinsvilleSwy with a really fast… pic.twitter.com/2FS57ZfmN1
— Claire B Lang (@ClaireBLang) March 28, 2025
Preece’s acknowledgment of his crew emphasizes the essence of teamwork in NASCAR, where the harmonious blend of skill and strategy can propel a team to success.
“I will praise them (pit crew) when they are doing days like they did at Homestead. Just as far as the pit crew side, knowing they were gonna be good? That’s not me. I feel Brad and Jack, RFK Racing, and Fenway Group, they’ve done a phenomenal job, giving me every great opportunity I can have. Really appreciative of the group we have right now and the things we’re building on.” – Ryan Preece
The meticulous selection and training processes led by RFK Racing’s leadership have fortified the team’s pit crew capabilities, demonstrating how integral these specialists are in the broader tapestry of racing victories.
Brad Keselowski’s Leadership and Team Chemistry
Under Brad Keselowski’s leadership, RFK Racing has cultivated a robust sense of team chemistry that is palpable both on and off the track, instilling a culture of shared ambition and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Keselowski has tactically infused the team with a mindset characterized by four crucial words: “Innovative. Professionalism. Relentless. Teamwork.” These guiding principles resonate within every member, creating an atmosphere where synergy thrives.
The team’s fellowship is further amplified by crew chief Derrick Finley‘s adept management of the new No. 60 team, ensuring seamless integration and operational efficiency.
Ryan Preece, recognizing this collective commitment, has often acknowledged the crew’s steadfast dedication and their shared desire to secure victory.
“I think Derrick [Finley] has done a great job of managing the group because this is a new group.” – Ryan Preece
This unity, fostered under Keselowski’s watchful eye, has not only boosted individual performances but has also fortified the team’s resolve to excel, demonstrating that true leadership lies in empowering others to achieve greatness together.
Ryan Preece’s Journey and Challenges This Season
Despite facing a series of formidable challenges this season, Ryan Preece’s course with RFK Racing has been marked by resilience and growth. His expedition began with a difficult start, blemished by wrecks and mechanical failures. However, his resolve and the support of his team have propelled him forward, showing his ability to adapt and overcome adversity.
- At Phoenix, Preece displayed remarkable skill by leading 34 laps and securing a 15th-place finish.
- His performance at Daytona was dramatic, involving a flip, yet he emerged with optimism intact.
- Despite these setbacks, his positive outlook on RFK Racing’s development remains steadfast.
- Demonstrating improvement, he has achieved one top-five and two top-10 finishes this season.
Martinsville Expectations and Ryan Preece’s Short-Track Strength
Building on his season of resilience, Ryan Preece approaches Martinsville with renewed vigor, poised to capitalize on his short-track skill. His impressive background in modified racing, spotlighted by victories at Martinsville in the Whelen Modified Tour in both 2008 and 2023, highlights his proficiency on tracks of this nature.
This expertise is further evidenced by his commendable ninth-place finish in last year’s Cup Series spring race at the same venue.
Preece’s confidence is palpable as he anticipates the upcoming race, declaring, “If we unload with a bunch of speed, we can go win that race.” This statement reflects not only his personal resolve but also his tactical mindset.
“I feel like our chances are good. I feel like over the past few years, we’ve qualified really well at Martinsville, especially with this tire. I think it’s something that I’m looking forward to, things that I could definitely do better, and hopefully do those things on Sunday. So, yeah, I’m looking forward to it, just being my background of short track racing, and I’ve had success at Martinsville – not in the Cup Series, but in modifieds, and obviously, this form of racing suits my style.” – Ryan Preece
His short-track skill, coupled with a history of success at Martinsville, positions him as a formidable contender. As he readies for the challenge, Preece’s blend of skill and optimism fuels his expectation for a standout performance.
News in Brief: Ryan Preece Credits Team Effort
As Ryan Preece reflects on his season, the commendable performance of RFK Racing’s pit crew at Homestead stands out as a demonstration of their dedication and skill. Their flawless execution highlights the effectiveness of Brad Keselowski’s leadership and the strong team chemistry that drives their success. With his eyes set on Martinsville, Preece’s resilience and short-track expertise position him as a formidable contender, poised to capitalize on the momentum built by his team’s steadfast support.
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