Brad Keselowski, co-owner and driver for RFK Racing, suffered a significant setback during the off-season when a family ski trip ended in a serious leg injury. After breaking his femur in a fall and requiring surgery that involved inserting metal rods, Keselowski will miss the unofficial NASCAR season opener, the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, focusing instead on his full recovery for the 2026 season. The Brad Keselowski leg injury update has drawn considerable attention as the team adapts to his absence and prepares for upcoming challenges.
As Keselowski recovers, RFK Racing has selected veteran Corey LaJoie to handle the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse at the Clash. The decision was made mutually between Keselowski and the team, emphasizing a patient approach to rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of returning the driver to race-winning form in the upcoming season.
Keselowski and RFK Racing Make Difficult Recovery Decision
Keen to not jeopardize his long-term health, Brad Keselowski and the RFK Racing leadership collectively agreed that his return should only happen when he is fully recovered, avoiding the risk of rushing back into competition without adequate testing or preparation. This conservative path means missing the high-profile event at Bowman Gray Stadium, a venue where Keselowski has enjoyed success in the past, notably winning the 2012 NASCAR Hall of Fame 150 ARCA Menards Series East race.
Keselowski explained the reasoning behind sitting out the season opener and highlighted the importance of a careful rehabilitation timeline.
I didn’t want to rush back. The team and I made the decision together that if all the rehab went absolutely perfect, we’d be ready like, literally, the day of the Clash. And that seemed super-foolish and didn’t give us any time to do any testing on myself or anything like that.
Brad Keselowski told Fox Sports (RACER.com).
Instead of accelerating his rehab, Keselowski is prioritizing his long-term performance and well-being, setting a focused path toward a competitive return by Daytona 500.
Corey LaJoie Steps Up for The Clash at Bowman Gray
RFK Racing’s decision means Corey LaJoie, another experienced driver, will take the wheel for the Clash. For LaJoie, the opportunity represents more than just a substitute appearance—it allows him to demonstrate his capabilities at one of NASCAR’s prominent venues and make a further case for his place in the premier division.
Happy to be of service. Wishing BK a speedy recovery. Let‘s go get another trophy at The Madhouse.
Corey LaJoie wrote on X.
The arrangement underscores the support within the RFK Racing team, as LaJoie aims to capitalize on his opportunity while Keselowski recuperates. The event at Bowman Gray Stadium, also known as “The Madhouse,” carries added significance, given Keselowski’s prior achievements there and LaJoie’s enthusiasm for the assignment.
The Extent and Pain of Keselowski’s Injury
Speaking openly, Brad Keselowski provided stark details about the leg injury that has sidelined him. He revealed that breaking the femur, the largest bone in the body, requires intensive rehabilitation and presents a major hurdle in his preparation for Daytona. Keselowski has faced injuries before throughout his career, but he stressed that this experience has been especially challenging.
I’m not great, but I’m good, I’m recovering really well. I had a major injury. I’m on a significant rehab plan to be back for the Daytona 500. … I’m now made of titanium in my leg. It’s a really painful thing to break. It’s the biggest bone in your body, which is kind of the bad part about it.
Brad Keselowski said.
The driver acknowledged both the drawbacks and unique advantages of his particular injury. While the pain has been substantial, the femur’s reputation for relatively quick healing gives him hope for a timely comeback. Nonetheless, the day-to-day pain remains a formidable challenge.
The good thing is it’s also one of the fastest healing parts of your body, so I’m just really dealing with the pain and trying to recover as fast as I can. I’ve broken a lot of different bones and parts of my body. I will tell you, none of them come close to hurting as bad as breaking your femur. It’s a very painful injury…
Brad Keselowski added.
Keselowski’s candidness about his recovery highlights the punishing physical demands of racing at the highest level and the determination needed to return from such a severe setback.
Broader Implications of Driver Injuries in NASCAR
The injury to the 2012 Cup champion has reignited ongoing debate about restrictions on risky activities for drivers contracted to top teams. Incidents away from the track carry significant stakes beyond personal health, including potential sponsorship losses and competitive disadvantages that can cost organizations millions, especially when a key figure like Brad Keselowski is forced to miss crucial events.
As teams weigh the risks and rewards of athletes’ personal pursuits, Keselowski’s situation may drive fresh conversations within the sport about balancing personal freedom with professional responsibility.
Looking Ahead to Keselowski’s Return
With Corey LaJoie taking over at the Clash, RFK Racing’s immediate strategy revolves around supporting Keselowski through his rehabilitation and ensuring the organization remains competitive. The ultimate focus is his return at the Daytona 500, where his presence will be vital. Fans and insiders alike will be closely monitoring the Brad Keselowski leg injury update as the NASCAR season advances, waiting to see how quickly and fully the accomplished veteran can make his comeback on the track known as “The Madhouse.”
🫡 happy to be of service. Wishing BK a speedy recovery. Let’s go get another trophy at The Madhouse. https://t.co/4Hc6dzT7WB
— Corey LaJoie (@CoreyLaJoie) January 8, 2026
