RFK Racing is confronting uncertainty regarding its sponsorship future with Castrol following BP’s sale of a majority stake in the oil brand to Stonepeak Investments. As the Cup Series team’s partnership with Castrol is committed through 2026, the organization’s prospects beyond that point depend heavily on both its on-track results and the direction set by Castrol’s incoming owners.
Major Ownership Changes Impact Castrol Backing
Recently, BP divested 65% of Castrol for about $6 billion, with Stonepeak Investments assuming the role of principal owner. This shift marks a significant change for RFK Racing, which has relied on Castrol’s backing since 2019. During this period, RFK secured six Cup Series wins, including a victory in 2024, highlighting the competitive value of the partnership in NASCAR.
Secured Deal Until 2026, But Beyond Remains In Doubt
Although Castrol has provided stability, the current agreement with RFK Racing is only guaranteed until the end of the 2026 season, with expiration looming in 2027. The new Castrol ownership may reassess business objectives, and the continuation of the sponsorship could hinge on whether RFK’s future performance matches Stonepeak’s strategic priorities. In the event that results fall short, the team could be forced to explore other sponsorship opportunities.
Competitive Performance To Influence Negotiations
RFK Racing’s on-track achievements moving into the 2026 season will directly impact negotiations with Castrol’s new leadership. A strong performance could solidify the relationship, while underwhelming results might shift Castrol’s interest elsewhere. Other backers, such as Kroger and Fastenal, offer some financial cushion, though they may not fully offset the potential loss of Castrol’s contributions.
Need For Consistency To Ensure Long-Term Stakeholder Support
As negotiations approach, RFK must demonstrate competitive strength to make a convincing case for continued support from Castrol’s new ownership. Maintaining and expanding sponsorship agreements is essential for the team’s long-term competitiveness in NASCAR’s Cup Series, making the next two years critically important for the organization’s financial and athletic prospects.
