RFK Racing fans witnessed a moving scene ahead of the highly anticipated Martinsville race, as Bob Keselowski’s grandson was spotted playing with a die-cast model of his late grandfather’s car on Brad Keselowski’s #6 RFK Racing Ford. This touching pre-race moment at Martinsville Speedway added an emotional layer to the RFK Racing Martinsville race, highlighting the powerful family legacy within NASCAR.
Bob Keselowski, remembered as both Brad’s father and an influential stock car driver, made a remarkable impact on the ARCA Menards Series, where he clinched a championship, and was instrumental in the development of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series during the 1990s. Since Bob’s passing in 2021, his family and RFK Racing have carried forward his racing passion, preserving his place in the sport’s history at key events like the elimination race at Martinsville Speedway.
A Special Family Moment Before the Penultimate NASCAR Race
In the build-up to the Xfinity 500 at Martinsville, which serves as the next-to-last race of the season, a heartfelt gesture went viral on social media. NASCAR reporter Noah Lewis shared the sight of Brad Keselowski’s son engaging with the past by playing with a replica of Bob Keselowski’s #29 K Automotive Racing Dodge on Brad’s current race car.
“Cool moment on the grid as (Brad Keselowski)’s son plays with grandfather Bob Keselowski’s die cast on his dad’s car,”
Lewis wrote. – Noah Lewis, NASCAR Reporter
This simple act resonated with many fans and industry members, reminding everyone of the enduring relationships that form the core of racing—where generations share memories, aspirations, and pride at marquee venues like Martinsville Speedway.
Bob Keselowski’s Racing Achievements and Lasting Influence
Bob Keselowski’s legendary status in motorsports is anchored by his 24 ARCA Menards Series victories, including his championship-winning year in 1989. He was also part of a pioneering era, as he competed in the first-ever season of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 1995—years before his son Brad Keselowski would step onto the NASCAR stage in the mid-2000s.
Beyond mainstream NASCAR circuits, Bob continued to chase speed records, highlighted by a memorable 271.8-mile-per-hour run at the Bonneville Salt Flats in a Dodge Charger in 2018. His adventurous spirit and relentless drive serve as an enduring source of motivation for the Keselowski family and their fans.
Brad Keselowski’s Journey to RFK Racing and Recent Performance
After Bob’s passing, Brad Keselowski made a significant move from Team Penske, taking on an ownership role and racing duties with RFK Racing. The 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion’s only win for the team came in 2024 at Darlington Raceway, a testament to the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing RFK Racing in the current competitive landscape.
With Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher, and Ryan Preece missing out on the playoffs this season, the RFK Racing team continues battling for pride and progress. The penultimate race at Martinsville brings into focus the remaining championship contenders, including Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe, both of whom have advanced to the next round, as well as Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Joey Logano, Ryan Blaney, and Chase Elliott.
Brad Keselowski’s Reflections on Family and Racing Priorities
Brad Keselowski contributed to a recent debate about school attendance by sharing a personal moment of regret connected to his father’s racing career. Responding to a social media discussion about missing school for family reasons, the RFK Racing driver recounted how he missed his father’s only NASCAR win at Richmond Raceway in the 1997 Craftsman Truck Series because he had to attend eighth-grade orientation.
“After an entire summer and years of travel with my family, I missed my dad’s one and only NASCAR win for 8th-grade orientation day.”
– Brad Keselowski, RFK Racing Driver and Co-owner
“I was so upset after that, it was all my mom could do to keep me from dropping out of school over the next 4 years. When my HS diploma came in the mail (I refused to go), my mom took it before I could toss it in the trash.”
– Brad Keselowski, RFK Racing Driver and Co-owner
He concluded with a direct appeal to educators:
“Teachers, let your kids do important things with their family. Don’t hassle them like this.”
– Brad Keselowski, RFK Racing Driver and Co-owner
His words not only highlighted the personal cost of missing these special events but also sparked conversation about the importance of family moments in shaping professional lives. The win he missed was a pivotal one: At Richmond Raceway in 1997, Bob Keselowski led 82 laps and claimed victory over three-time champion Jack Sprague and Jay Sauter.
The Ongoing Legacy of the Keselowski Racing Family
The scene at Martinsville Speedway underscores how family and history are woven deeply into the world of stock car racing. The Keselowski name remains prominent, with each generation building on the accomplishments of the last. Brad’s continued presence as both driver and co-owner at RFK Racing demonstrates the evolution of legacy, ambition, and commitment to motorsports excellence.
As the current season draws to its close and the championship picture sharpens, this meaningful moment at the track is a reminder of the values and relationships that fuel the sport just as much as any car or championship trophy. With the RFK Racing Martinsville race in the spotlight, fans and participants alike look ahead to new memories, hoping the Keselowski family legacy will inspire future generations of drivers and teams.
Cool moment on the grid as @keselowski’s son plays with grandfather Bob Keselowski’s die cast on his dad’s car. #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/tml79BN6TA
— Noah Lewis (@Noah_Lewis1) October 26, 2025
