Brad Keselowski aims for second Coca-Cola 600 victory as he prepares for this weekend’s race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, intent on building from his memorable 2020 win and fueled by last year’s near-miss. The RFK Racing co-owner and driver of the No. 6 ford/”>Ford remains determined to secure another marquee win at one of NASCAR’s longest events.
Keselowski’s Winning History and Near-Miss in 2024
Keselowski previously clinched his first Coca-Cola 600 victory in 2020 after an intense overtime finish, overcoming the challenge of starting from the back following car adjustments. That triumph marked the thirty-first win of his career and showcased his ability to surge through the field in crucial moments at Charlotte.
In 2024, arduous weather conditions forced the race to end early at only 249 laps, with Christopher Bell ultimately taking the checkered flag. Keselowski finished second and later expressed his feelings about the outcome.
“I felt like we had a car to win the race,”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver
Keselowski reflected on the dramatic close of last year’s race, lamenting the shortened distance which prevented him from mounting a final challenge. He remarked on the team’s strong performance, as well as his desire for a full race opportunity.
“The car was really fast. Our pit stops were phenomenal. We just didn’t get to see it through. I’m bummed for our team. I’m bummed for everybody, but the weather is what the weather is.”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver
Looking Ahead: Focus on Charlotte and Renewed Drive
Keen to move past the disappointment of 2024, Keselowski’s focus is now firmly on the upcoming Coca-Cola 600. As a Michigan-born racer, he sees the Charlotte event as one of the most significant on the NASCAR calendar, both personally and professionally.
“We’ve got Charlotte this weekend, the Coke 600 – big race for our sport, big race for me. One I’d like to win again,”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver
He described narrowly missing victory in the previous year, expressing both regret and renewed motivation to capture another trophy.
“Felt like I was going to win it again last year in 2024 – we were pushing hard for the lead and almost had the pass, and the yellow came out and then the rain came and the race ended. That was a big bummer. But I got one of those trophies. Trying to get a second one. I’m going to be greedy.”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver
Strengths and Preparation for the 2024 Showdown
This season, Keselowski is confident about his chances, praising the improvements within RFK Racing and highlighting the team’s strong performance on intermediate tracks. He points out that tracks like Charlotte play to the strengths of both his driving style and his crew.
He notes the crucial role played by his pit crew, who have shown notable progress through recent changes and have delivered strong results in the weeks leading up to the event.
“The pit crew is really coming together – we made a lot of changes there over the off-season and they’ve had a great couple of weeks. So that’s exciting. And for me, I think my confidence is growing in our team and how I drive the car. Just need to connect it all.”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver
The Challenge of the Coca-Cola 600
The Coca-Cola 600 is one of the most demanding races in NASCAR, consisting of 400 laps at the historic Charlotte Motor Speedway. Drivers must maintain focus and physical endurance over an extended distance, which tests every aspect of the team and car.
Keselowski emphasizes the basics for a strong performance, including preparation, nutrition, and staying physically ready for the grueling event ahead.
“I think you just do the basics right, don’t out-trick yourself. Eat well, hydrate well, stay focused, take care of your body.”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver
What’s at Stake in Charlotte
The upcoming Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway remains a defining event for drivers such as Keselowski, whose determination, team cohesion, and growing confidence set the stage for a hard-fought battle. With a previous win and a recent runner-up finish, Keselowski’s pursuit for a second victory continues to capture attention, as RFK Racing and fans await the next chapter of this storied race.
