The NASCAR community continues to follow the Brad Keselowski injury update as the RFK Racing driver/owner recovers from a broken leg, forcing him to withdraw from the pre-season exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium. Keselowski’s absence opens the door for veteran Corey LaJoie, who has been chosen to steer the No. 6 Ford Mustang during the anticipated event.
Keselowski’s Recovery and Return Timeline
Brad Keselowski was injured on December 18th while skiing with his family and underwent a successful surgery shortly after the incident. Though released from the hospital and progressing with his recovery, he will not compete in The Clash at Bowman Gray, which takes place two weeks before the Daytona 500 on February 15th. This timetable allows Keselowski additional time to heal ahead of the Daytona season opener.
Corey LaJoie Tapped for the No. 6 Ford
With Keselowski sidelined, RFK Racing announced Corey LaJoie as the replacement driver for Bowman Gray. LaJoie brings significant experience, nearing 300 career Cup starts. In 2025, he competed sporadically, making four Cup starts and nine Truck Series appearances, in addition to working as a NASCAR analyst on Prime Video.
LaJoie acknowledged the opportunity and showed support for Keselowski, stating,
“Wishing BK w speedy recovery. Let’s go get another trophy at The Madhouse.”
– Corey LaJoie, Driver
LaJoie’s Record at Bowman Gray and Recent Performances
Corey LaJoie is familiar with success at Bowman Gray Stadium, famously winning the 2012 ARCA East Series race—formerly the K&N East Series—by leading 118 of 153 laps. That performance placed him ahead of eventual Cup stars like Bubba Wallace, Kyle Larson, Daniel Suarez, and Chase Elliott, all of whom will also compete later this month.
The 34-year-old last participated in The Clash during the 2024 season, held at the LA Memorial Coliseum, where he finished 17th while driving for Spire Motorsports.
History and Significance of the Exhibition Race
For Keselowski, the exhibition race at Bowman Gray is familiar ground, as he started fifth and finished 21st last year at the short track. With drivers like Denny Hamlin of Joe Gibbs Racing, Daniel Suarez, and Chase Elliott also expected to compete, the event remains a major prelude to the racing season. “The Madhouse,” as Bowman Gray is known, adds another dimension of excitement for both drivers and fans.
As Keselowski focuses on recovery from his skiing accident, Corey LaJoie steps into a valuable opportunity to demonstrate his skills on a historic stage, keeping RFK Racing’s competitive hopes alive until the team owner is ready to return. The focus now shifts to LaJoie’s performance and Keselowski’s continued progress ahead of the 68th Daytona 500.
