RFK Racing is experiencing a significant change as it navigates an RFK Racing leadership transition, with Brad Keselowski steering the team through the aftermath of losing longtime president Steve Newmark to the University of North Carolina. As the team works to reclaim its place as a competitive force in NASCAR, Keselowski has emphasized a careful and patient approach in filling the leadership gap left by Newmark’s departure.
Keselowski Responds to Newmark’s Departure
Steve Newmark, who played a crucial role as an executive in guiding the Jack Roush-owned organization through both downsizing and its recent revitalization, will take on the position of Executive Associate Athletic Director at the university later this summer. His departure marks the end of a 15-year tenure filled with pivotal moments for RFK Racing—especially its ongoing process of rebuilding under Keselowski’s ownership and guidance. With drivers like Keselowski, Ryan Preece, and Chris Buescher fielding three competitive teams, the change in leadership arrives at a potentially sensitive phase for the organization.
Brad Keselowski addressed the transition, commenting on the nature of change within motorsports:
Whether it be drivers, crew chiefs, or executives. You just hope that the time people spend in your organization is good for them and good for you. I think there is a lot to be said for that with Steve.
—Brad Keselowski, Co-owner and Driver
Taking a Deliberate Approach to Finding New Leadership
For RFK Racing, sudden changes in top positions have the potential to disrupt progress and their ambitions of reestablishing themselves as a NASCAR powerhouse. However, Keselowski remains confident, assuring that there is currently no urgency in naming a new president. Emphasizing stability and the security of key relationships within the team, he laid out his perspective on succession:
We are still working through that. We are not in a rush. We are in such a great spot. All our major contracts are locked up with drivers and crew chiefs, and most of our people. We have a few small sponsor contracts, but most of our big ones are locked up. So, we feel really good about taking our time and seeing what comes to us.
—Brad Keselowski, Co-owner and Driver
With major components like drivers, crew chiefs, and essential staff secured, the organization seems well-positioned to handle this period of transition without haste. Keselowski’s strategy is to approach this leadership search methodically, prioritizing the right fit over a rapid decision, and ensuring continuity for the team’s ongoing plans and goals.
Steve Newmark’s Vision for NASCAR’s Future
Although Newmark is moving on from RFK Racing, he continues to share insights about the direction he hopes the sport will go. In a recent appearance on the Backstretch Banter podcast, Newmark spoke on opportunities for NASCAR’s growth and the possibility of international races, touching on new horizons for the sport:
To me, a lot of these locations that are being talked, you hear the Middle East would love to host a race. Again, I am not on the inside of those discussions. I get a lot of it from our team presidents’ meeting or when NASCAR shares information. But I think those are all good signs for the sport.
—Steve Newmark, Outgoing RFK Racing President
Newmark expressed personal interest in the potential expansion of races in places like Brazil, recognizing both the vibrant motorsports culture there and the appeal of global reach for NASCAR. Despite his move to the university sector, his views reflect optimism for the sport’s future and its appeal to international fans.
The Road Ahead for RFK Racing and NASCAR
The exit of a pivotal executive like Steve Newmark arrives as RFK Racing strives for resurgence in NASCAR competition. While his departure presents short-term challenges, Brad Keselowski’s measured approach is designed to safeguard the team’s structure and aspirations, minimizing disruption during this leadership shift. As Keselowski and the team search for a new leader who fits RFK’s evolving identity, the focus remains on cementing foundational stability and nurturing long-term growth.
Steve Newmark’s lasting influence and vision for NASCAR’s future will likely impact the direction of the wider sport, while RFK Racing continues adapting under Keselowski’s leadership. The coming months will reveal how the organization leverages this transition to maintain momentum—keeping its eye on reclaiming a spot among NASCAR’s elite.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does LeBron James own RFK Racing?
A. LeBron James isn’t directly part of NASCAR, but he has a minor role there and is using it positively. He is a partner in Fenway Motorsports. Fenway is the “F” in RFK Racing’s name.
