Ryan Preece has delivered a remarkable start to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season with RFK Racing, standing out even after a disappointing disqualification at Talladega on Sunday for a spoiler violation. While the setback stung, Preece’s strong second-place finish in that race highlighted his resilience and growing success with his new team, underscoring his progress in both the Cup points and the playoff standings.
Much of this early-season momentum, according to Ryan Preece, can be traced back to the powerful chemistry developing inside the RFK Racing organization. Speaking recently, Preece was quick to highlight the positive atmosphere he’s found since joining the team. He shared, “Everything. When it comes to being teammates with Chris [Buescher] and Brad [Keselowski], their willingness and openness as teammates has been really, really great for me as a driver.” Preece emphasized that support from veterans like Derrick Finley and the experienced crew has provided valuable guidance for newcomers, saying, “They’ve really shared a lot of their knowledge, as well as being great teammates. And I feel like all three teams have just been lifting each other up and helping push each other forward.”
This unified approach has extended beyond just the drivers. Preece noted the exceptional culture at the team’s shop, where even those not traveling to races feel included and vital to RFK Racing’s success. “I just feel like the shop environment’s been phenomenal,” Preece explained, adding that a sense of purpose and community helps the entire organization remain motivated and focused on details that can make the difference on the track.
Despite a rocky beginning, where Ryan Preece finished outside the top 15 in three of his first four races, he soon captured significant momentum. Notably, Preece clinched a third-place finish at Las Vegas, finished ninth at Homestead, and took seventh at Martinsville. Although the Talladega DQ cost him in the standings, he remains in a competitive position, sitting 18th in Cup points and 19th in the playoff hunt. This run signals both his individual talent and the collective strength of RFK Racing, fueling increasing optimism for the remainder of the season.
Off the track, Preece’s recent partnership with Celsius has also given him an edge in focus and energy. During the Talladega race, his car showcased both Kroger and Celsius, and Preece made it clear that Celsius is a product he truly enjoys. “For me, it’s pretty easy just because whenever I feel like I’m going into my shop, I always feel like I need a little something to help me focus anyways and help organize my thoughts and kind of put that list together,” Preece said, reflecting on how the drink boosts his productivity and mental clarity. “So for me, it’s always nice to go and before I go into the shop or as I’m working, be able to drink one. And you feel intentional, you feel focused, and it’s a nice way to start my time in the shop, especially because I am a morning person.”
Ryan Preece’s story so far this season not only showcases his talent and persistence in the face of adversity, but also reflects the importance of teamwork and preparation at RFK Racing. The collaboration between drivers, the dedication of the shop crew, and even the benefits of his new sponsor partnership are all playing integral parts in his current success. As the NASCAR Cup Series season progresses, fans and experts alike will be watching to see how Preece and RFK Racing build upon this energetic start, aiming to convert early promise into a breakthrough year of achievement.
