Brad Keselowski received clearance from NASCAR to participate in the opening race of the Cup Series at Daytona International Speedway this week, marking an important step in his recovery since breaking his right femur during a ski accident in December. As preparations for the 2026 Daytona 500 proceed, RFK Racing has implemented a contingency plan to ensure coverage if Keselowski’s health prevents him from competing, making this Brad Keselowski Daytona 500 update significant for fans and the team.
RFK Racing Prepares Backup Plan Amid Keselowski’s Recovery
Throughout the week, Keselowski showed strong performances, qualifying 18th on Wednesday and securing a fourth-place finish in the America 250 Florida Duel, locking in the ninth spot for Sunday’s Daytona 500 at Daytona Beach, Florida. Despite these successes, he relies on a cane for mobility as he continues to heal, leading RFK Racing to set a plan in motion for the demanding 200-lap event at the iconic 2.5-mile oval.
Should Keselowski be unable to either start or finish the 68th “Great American Race,” veteran driver David Ragan stands ready to fill in as his backup. This move ensures that RFK Racing’s No. 6 Ford remains competitive regardless of unforeseen circumstances, highlighting the team’s focus on resilience and adaptability during this pivotal event.
“Brad Keselowski has David Ragan as a backup if need be. For COTA in two weeks, he will have Joey Hand, who is the RFK reserve driver for road courses.”
— Bob Pockrass, NASCAR Reporter
David Ragan’s History at Daytona Brings Experience to the Team
David Ragan brings considerable experience at Daytona International Speedway, having last participated in the Daytona 500 in 2024 when RFK Racing added a non-chartered entry specifically for him. Despite starting last, Ragan led two laps and finished 20th, reinforcing his status as a reliable and seasoned presence at the event.
Ragan’s relationship with Daytona dates back to 2007, his inaugural start with RFK Racing (then Roush Fenway Racing), and he hasn’t missed back-to-back editions of this legendary race since. Although Ragan has not raced full-time in the Cup Series since 2019, his deep familiarity with the Daytona 500 makes him an ideal substitute should the need arise for Keselowski’s backup.
Across 17 career Daytona 500 starts, Ragan’s best finish has been fourth place, which he achieved in 2020 while racing for Rick Ware Racing. He has also placed fifth and sixth in previous editions for Roush Fenway Racing in 2007 and 2009, respectively. In addition, Ragan is a two-time Cup Series race winner, taking victories at Daytona for Roush Fenway Racing in 2011 and at Talladega Superspeedway for Front Row Motorsports in 2013.
While RFK Racing hopes Ragan will not be required to step in and drive the No. 6 Ford this Sunday or at next week’s race at EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta, they remain prepared for all potential scenarios, balancing optimism with a pragmatic approach to driver health and team goals.
Reserve Drivers for Upcoming Races: Joey Hand Set for COTA
Looking ahead, RFK Racing has also confirmed that Joey Hand will act as the team’s reserve driver for road courses, such as the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) event in two weeks. Hand achieved a career-best fourth-place finish at the Chicago Street Race during his first outing for the organization in 2024, which secured him his role as the primary backup on road circuits. His presence ensures coverage for one of only three non-oval tracks in this year’s revised Cup Series schedule.
With these drivers on standby, RFK Racing emphasizes consistency and preparedness through its roster, especially as the season’s early races, including the Daytona 500 and COTA, present both opportunities and physical challenges for drivers like Keselowski on the mend.
Daytona 500 Broadcast Details and What Lies Ahead for RFK Racing
The 68th running of the Daytona 500 is scheduled to air on Fox at 2:00 p.m. ET this Sunday, weather permitting. NASCAR fans and RFK Racing supporters alike will be closely monitoring Keselowski’s performance and his ability to compete on race day amid ongoing recovery. The team’s well-structured backup plans with David Ragan and Joey Hand add stability as they aim for a strong start to the 2026 Cup Series season at Daytona International Speedway.
This season-opener holds particular significance for RFK Racing and Keselowski, as it highlights both the unpredictability of motorsports and the readiness of leading NASCAR teams to adapt quickly to any challenge—ensuring every opportunity to contend, regardless of setbacks. The Brad Keselowski Daytona 500 update thus underscores the organization’s commitment to preparedness at racing’s highest level.
Brad Keselowski has David Ragan as a backup if need be. For COTA in two weeks, he will have Joey Hand, who is the RFK reserve driver for road courses. https://t.co/wnuxX7Z2Sz
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 11, 2026
