Following Brad Keselowski’s leg surgery resulting from a family ski trip accident, there is increasing uncertainty about his ability to race in the upcoming 2026 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on Sunday, February 1. This Brad Keselowski injury update comes as RFK Racing and its fans await confirmation on whether the veteran driver and team co-owner will be fit to compete at the preseason NASCAR exhibition event, emphasizing the importance of his full recovery ahead of the Daytona 500.
Keselowski’s Recovery Timeline and Implications for Bowman Gray Race
With only six weeks between his surgery and the exhibition race, Keselowski’s participation is questionable due to the physical demands of the Bowman Gray short-track circuit. The RFK Racing driver’s priority remains a healthy comeback for the Daytona 500, and the risks of returning too soon may prompt both Keselowski and his team to name a substitute for the preseason event to safeguard his long-term health.
RFK Racing now faces decisions about filling the #6 Ford Mustang seat for the Cook Out Clash, should Keselowski opt to continue his recovery. The immediate focus is on ensuring the team remains competitive while also preventing any setbacks to Keselowski’s rehabilitation.
Top Candidates to Step into Keselowski’s Seat
If Brad Keselowski lacks medical clearance or chooses to rest for Daytona, several experienced and talented stand-ins will be considered for the Bowman Gray drive.
David Ragan: The Trusted Veteran
David Ragan emerges as the most likely replacement given his established rapport with the RFK Racing organization and previous appearances, such as with the team’s Stage 60 entry in the 2024 Daytona 500. His familiarity with the latest Next Gen car ensures a smooth transition, particularly for a non-points exhibition where collecting data and keeping the equipment intact are top priorities. Ragan’s reliability and experience within the Ford camp make him a practical and low-risk option for this one-off appearance.
Corey Heim: Rising Star and Adaptable Prospect
Another strong candidate is Corey Heim, recognized as one of NASCAR’s leading prospects. Heim’s background includes time as a standby driver across multiple Cup Series teams, showcasing his adaptability and competitiveness. Despite being a Toyota development driver, his aggressive yet controlled performance style—especially on short tracks such as Bowman Gray—could be particularly advantageous in the exhibition environment. The opportunity would also allow RFK Racing to evaluate Heim’s potential within their organization.
Tim Brown: Local Legend with Home Track Advantage
RFK Racing could also tap the extensive local expertise of Tim Brown, who is tightly linked to Bowman Gray Stadium, boasting over 100 victories and 12 track championships. Brown made his NASCAR Cup Series debut during the 2025 exhibition at Bowman Gray with Rick Ware Racing, driving the #15 Ford Mustang. Deploying a true Bowman Gray specialist like Brown would offer RFK Racing an unmatched understanding of the track’s unique conditions and racing rhythm, drawing on his familiarity with “The Madhouse.”
What This Means for Keselowski and RFK Racing
The final call on Keselowski’s participation will hinge on his medical progress and ultimate readiness for the Daytona 500. While his absence would be felt by fans and the team, RFK Racing’s potential stand-ins each bring distinct strengths, ensuring the team’s competitive edge is maintained. The selection process will also generate interest around future prospects and the unique challenge of Bowman Gray, as NASCAR’s focus shifts to driver health and strategic decision-making at the opening of the new racing season.
