Ryan Preece has emerged as the Ryan Preece most improved NASCAR Cup Series driver this season, drawing the attention and praise of Brad Keselowski at a pivotal point in the racing calendar. While Keselowski himself has faced challenges on track, Preece’s performance has positioned him within playoff contention and set expectations for an overdue victory.
Preece’s Steady Climb in the NASCAR Cup Series
This year, while Brad Keselowski has struggled to find consistent results, his fellow RFK Racing drivers, Chris Buescher and Ryan Preece, have maintained strong campaigns. Preece, in particular, has built a compelling case as the season’s most improved driver, climbing to 14th in the points standings. Despite experiencing a disqualification at Talladega earlier in the season, he remains comfortably within the playoff positions, with only eight winners seen so far at this halfway mark.
Keselowski’s ability to identify underappreciated talent has shaped his success as both a driver and a team owner at RFK Racing. When he teamed up with Buescher, many questioned the potential of the pairing. However, under Keselowski’s co-ownership, Buescher transformed himself into a multi-race winner. Now, Keselowski sees a familiar story developing with Preece, whose work ethic and drive have earned admiration throughout the NASCAR world.
While the number of winners is low this season, Preece has consistently delivered performances that hint a breakthrough victory may only be a matter of time. Keselowski is closely watching the progress of the No. 60 team, expressing significant satisfaction with his newest addition’s development.
“Yeah, I’m really happy for him,”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver/Owner
“When we brought him on, I said this to someone the other day, I can’t remember who, it reminded me a lot of the Chris Buescher story, where, you know, people looked at it and said, ‘What do you see here?’ And, ‘I don’t know if it’s a good move,’ and I just felt really strong about it. You know, I like his work ethic, I like his talent. I just felt like he wasn’t in the right situation. The same way I felt about Chris. But just felt like the burden was on us to put him in the right position, and to allow him to thrive in a kind of scheme that was made for him. And he’s done just that.”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver/Owner
Comparisons to Chris Buescher’s Ascendancy
Keselowski’s insight suggests a deliberate strategy to foster underdog talent within his team. Once considered an outsider for success, Buescher has evolved under RFK Racing’s guidance, and Keselowski envisions Preece on a similar path. The ability of both drivers to persevere through professional challenges and maintain their positions in the sport speaks volumes about their resolve. Keselowski recognizes their shared mentality, noting how both have had to overcome obstacles just to remain competitive in NASCAR, let alone dominate it.
Buescher and Preece epitomize the underdog story that so often marks great moments in motorsports. Their journeys have required both dedication and resilience through difficult periods, with each now enjoying the benefits of a supportive structure at RFK Racing. Keselowski has made it clear he trusts Preece’s commitment and ability, highlighting the strong bond and belief within the team.
Expectations for Preece’s Breakthrough Victory
The environment at RFK Racing appears to be ideal for fostering success among its drivers. Keselowski, Buescher, and Preece all bring a deep passion for racing, with Keselowski’s background rooted in both driving and team management. The trust and enthusiasm surrounding Preece within the team is palpable, as he continues to prove his capabilities while surrounded by those who value his potential.
Keselowski’s recent comments suggest that Preece has already validated the decision to bring him to the organization. He places significant emphasis on Preece’s perseverance, noting the supportive system that now allows the driver to show what he can truly achieve on the biggest stage. The ownership group remains optimistic and invested, with growing anticipation for the team’s next step forward.
“He’s been close a few times. I can’t wait to see him break through; that will be a good moment. Three or four years ago, I feel like we were having the same conversation about Chris Buescher, and you know, now, Chris is clearly the guy for the 17 car and done all the right things in producing results. And I feel like we’re going to be saying the same thing over the next few years about Ryan.”
—Brad Keselowski, Driver/Owner
The Impact of a Win for Preece and RFK Racing
With the NASCAR Cup Series approaching its halfway point, all signs point toward a potentially defining win for Preece. His efforts have not only bolstered his own standing but also underscored the depth of talent at RFK Racing. Keselowski’s parallel between Preece and Buescher’s trajectories suggests that the organization is poised to continue building on recent successes, with Preece possibly taking on a leading role in future competitions.
As the playoff field firms up and the remaining races promise fierce competition, the rise of Preece captures the essence of what has made NASCAR’s underdog stories so compelling. With Keselowski’s confidence and the organization’s faith, Ryan Preece most improved NASCAR Cup Series driver is closer than ever to delivering a well-deserved, perhaps breakthrough, moment for himself and the RFK Racing operation.
