Brad Keselowski is awaiting his final medical clearance in hopes of competing in the upcoming Daytona 500, following a broken femur he suffered in mid-December. As the Daytona 500 approaches, Keselowski’s return depends on passing a crucial approval test, making the Brad Keselowski medical clearance update a point of focus for fans and teams alike.
Keselowski, a regular in the NASCAR Cup Series, was unable to participate in the recently held Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium due to his recovery from injury. Despite multiple delays and considerable effort, his comeback relies entirely on receiving the green light from the NASCAR medical team before the season opener, which is fast approaching.
Medical Approval Delayed Due to Weather
To compete in any NASCAR event, Keselowski must obtain a valid driver’s license from the sanctioning body, and this includes passing an official medical test. The former champion used social media to inform fans that his anticipated test was moved to Monday, delaying his hopes of returning to racing action.
“My final approval test has been moved to Monday due to weather,”
Keselowski wrote. – Brad Keselowski, NASCAR Driver
The rescheduling caused additional anxiety for Keselowski and his team, particularly with the Daytona 500 just around the corner. This makes Monday’s assessment decisive, as his ability to return hinges on a medical professional’s evaluation.
Injury Details and Road to Recovery
The setback for Keselowski began on December 18, when he fractured his right femur during a ski trip. The incident happened in what he described as an unremarkable moment while exiting a vehicle, not during any risky activity on the slopes.
“I just fell perfectly on a spot that broke my leg,”
Keselowski said in an earlier statement. – Brad Keselowski, NASCAR Driver
“I wish it was some cooler story than that, like jumping or doing something on the slopes.”
– Brad Keselowski, NASCAR Driver
Since the accident, Keselowski has been focused on rehabilitation, eager to rejoin his RFK Racing Mustang team. The weeks that followed included medical consultations and physical therapy, all aimed at regaining strength and flexibility in time for the new season.
Keeps Team Interests and Competition in Mind
Keselowski, now in his fifth season as an RFK Racing driver and co-owner, has a storied history in NASCAR, including 36 career Cup Series victories and major wins at events like the Coca-Cola 600, Indianapolis 500, and Southern 500. Known for his competitive spirit, Keselowski made a calculated decision to sit out the Clash at Bowman Gray rather than risk incomplete recovery, placing team success and personal health above immediate return.
During the February 4 Clash in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Corey LaJoie stepped into the No. 6 RFK Racing car in Keselowski’s absence. In a recent interview, Keselowski elaborated on why he and his team chose not to rush his rehabilitation simply for an early-season appearance.
“I didn’t want to rush back,”
Keselowski explained (via USA Today). – Brad Keselowski, NASCAR Driver
“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, NASCAR Driver
The joint approach highlights Keselowski’s long-term commitment both to his health and to RFK Racing’s competitive outlook.
Anticipation Builds as Daytona 500 Nears
Keselowski’s return remains uncertain as all eyes turn to the Daytona 500, scheduled for February 15. The upcoming medical evaluation looms as a final hurdle, with fans, competitors, and stakeholders awaiting news that could shape the starting grid of NASCAR’s iconic race. His rivals—including former Team Penske teammates and current RFK Racing colleagues—will monitor closely, as Keselowski’s presence greatly influences race dynamics.
The Daytona 500, marking its 68th running, will take center stage on February 15, 2026, broadcast live on FOX starting at 2:30 pm ET. For those following away from a screen, radio coverage will be available via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, offering updates on Keselowski’s possible return.
Keselowski, a native of Rochester, Michigan, has not only shaped RFK Racing’s recent direction but is considered a cornerstone figure within NASCAR. Whether he lines up on the grid depends entirely on the outcome of his rescheduled evaluation.
The Brad Keselowski medical clearance update remains among the most watched headlines as Daytona approaches, with the result carrying major significance for the Cup Series opener and the 2026 season at large.
