Brad Keselowski has publicly offered Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen a chance to race in NASCAR, responding after Verstappen shared critical views on the future direction of F1’s car technology. The Brad Keselowski NASCAR invitation came after the Red Bull driver suggested he was exploring other motorsport opportunities, raising interest in the racing world on possible cross-series moves.
Keselowski Responds to Verstappen’s Comments About New F1 Cars
Recent changes to F1 regulations introduced by the FIA will take effect in the 2026 season, bringing significant updates to both the engine and chassis. The upcoming design puts greater emphasis on electric power, making how drivers use and manage energy more important. During preseason testing in Bahrain, Max Verstappen was candid about his dissatisfaction with the new direction, stating,
“To drive, not a lot of fun to be honest, I would say the right word is management.”
He expanded on this sentiment, noting the altered driving experience and comparing it to other racing formats,
“So it’s not always the nicest thing to say, but I also want to be realistic as for as a driver, the feeling is not very F1-like. It feels a bit more like Formula E on steroids,” added Max Verstappen
Verstappen emphasized that personal enjoyment is now more important to him than simply driving a winning car, and referenced checking out other racing series, saying,
“A winning car, for me, that doesn’t matter. It needs to be fun to drive as well, I think, at this stage of my career. I mean, I am, of course, also exploring other things outside of Formula 1 to have fun at,” said Verstappen
Spotting the Dutchman’s openness to change, Brad Keselowski, co-owner of RFK Racing and veteran driver, responded via X with a direct invitation. He emphasized that a chance to move to stock car racing is available for Verstappen, posting,
“We have a @FordRacing cup car ready to go. Feel free to DM when you’re ready Max.”
Keselowski’s outreach has generated excitement, bringing Ford and NASCAR into a conversation that reaches beyond typical racing audiences. Given Verstappen’s achievements with Red Bull in F1, his involvement in NASCAR would be a high-profile shake-up in the motorsports world.
Keselowski’s Recovery and Return for Daytona 500
Beyond his team ownership, Keselowski’s own racing journey was marked by a significant setback over the winter. Suffering a broken bone from a skiing accident during the break, he faced surgery and a challenging eight-week recovery, missing the Clash event at Bowman Gray. However, Keselowski made his return in time for NASCAR’s flagship event, posting a message reflecting on his ordeal,
“So much work to get here! Special thanks to my family, the 6 crew, all the medical professionals and my fans for all your help and support ❤️😊👍🏻On to Daytona.”
Now fully recovered, Keselowski is set to start the 2026 Daytona 500 from ninth position, driving the No. 6 RFK Racing Ford. As co-owner, Keselowski’s involvement has already shaped the team’s direction, with his stake resulting in the current team name, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing.
Potential Impact of a Verstappen Move and What Comes Next
The Brad Keselowski NASCAR invitation marks a notable intersection between Formula 1 and NASCAR, and if Verstappen seriously explores a move, it could set a precedent for champions crossing between premier racing disciplines. RFK Racing, led by Keselowski, has shown readiness to welcome top talent willing to experience a new form of motorsport. While Verstappen’s next steps remain to be seen, his public remarks and Keselowski’s open offer have fueled speculation and interest across the global racing community.
We have a @FordRacing cup car ready to go. Feel free to DM when you’re ready Max https://t.co/h0fmkSgKiB
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 13, 2026
