Brad Keselowski‘s NASCAR return has been clouded with uncertainty after he suffered a significant injury during the off-season. The RFK Racing driver, who broke his femur in December 2025, faces obstacles to securing his NASCAR license and may be absent from both the season-opening Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium and the iconic Daytona 500.
Keselowski experienced the setback on December 18, 2025, when he fell from a vehicle during a ski trip, leading to a broken right femur. Although his rehabilitation has progressed well, he has not yet received medical clearance from both his doctors and NASCAR authorities. This approval is crucial for him to compete again in professional stock car racing events.
Consequences for the 2026 NASCAR Season Kickoff
Keselowski has already confirmed his absence from the Cook Out Clash, the traditional exhibition that launches the NASCAR season. Despite the race being postponed by several days due to adverse weather, his recovery timeline remains unchanged, preventing his participation at Bowman Gray Stadium. More pressing for fans and his team, there is no assurance he will be ready for the Daytona 500, the landmark race that follows the Clash and is typically a highlight of any driver’s career.
Explaining his situation directly to followers on social media, Keselowski stated,
“Short answer- NOLong answer- I don’t currently have a valid NASCAR driver’s license. Scheduled to take the different tests end of the week. Must pass to drive the car at DAYTONA or anywhere else. Big week ahead”
— Brad Keselowski said via X, @keselowski.
He elaborated that his return hinges on passing mandatory medical evaluations scheduled at the end of the week. If the NASCAR medical team isn’t satisfied with his condition, the 41-year-old will be forced to miss the Daytona 500 as well, compounding the impact on his 2026 campaign and RFK Racing’s plans.
Keen Drive to Return and Reach Racing Milestones
Despite this setback, Keselowski’s resolve remains strong. Since his racing debut in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2004, he has climbed the ranks, now representing RFK Racing in the Cup Series, amassing over 600 Cup starts en route. The injury hasn’t dampened his long-term ambitions, as he highlighted his determination to achieve a rare and celebrated milestone within the sport.
Considering the possibility of surpassing 900 career starts—a feat accomplished by motorsport legends Richard Petty and Ricky Rudd—Keselowski sees his injury as further motivation. He shared his thoughts with fans, acknowledging the lengthy journey ahead but considering it achievable with dedication and perseverance:
“A few people have sent me this which got me thinking… 900 starts sounds nice to me. Will take about 8 more seasons, Definitely doable. Great broken leg recovery motivation. Thanks to all who’ve sent this to me.”
— Brad Keselowski said via X, @keselowski.
Implications for Keselowski and the Broader NASCAR Field
The season’s launch has been bumpy not just for Keselowski and RFK Racing but for NASCAR as a whole. The Cook Out Clash’s start was delayed by intense snowfall, adding unpredictability and logistical challenges. For Keselowski, the immediate focus is on regaining full fitness and passing all required assessments, while NASCAR fans and the broader racing community await official word on his eligibility for Daytona.
Should Keselowski’s absence at Daytona 500 be confirmed, it would mark a notable void in the field, altering strategies for his team and opening opportunities for other racers. His pursuit of the all-time start record, meanwhile, represents the resilient spirit many in the sport admire. RFK Racing and Keselowski supporters hope for positive health updates as the critical week of evaluations approaches, with the Brad Keselowski NASCAR return remaining one of the most talked-about stories as the 2026 season unfolds.
Short answer- NO
Long answer- I don’t currently have a valid NASCAR driver’s license. Scheduled to take the different tests end of the week. Must pass to drive the car at DAYTONA or anywhere else.
Big week ahead https://t.co/T4Us4hVjV7
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 2, 2026
A few people have sent me this which got me thinking…
900 starts sounds nice to me.
Will take about 8 more seasons, Definitely doable.Great broken leg recovery motivation. Thanks to all who’ve sent this to me. https://t.co/HYv96UTFwI
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) January 17, 2026
