Brad Keselowski and RFK Racing confirmed Tuesday they are parting ways at the end of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season. Keselowski will step down as head of competition and exit the No. 6 Ford, ending a five-year run that began when he joined the team as a co-owner in 2021.
The departure marks a turning point for one of the garage’s ownership partnerships. Keselowski joined what was then Roush Fenway Racing ahead of the 2022 campaign, bringing an ownership stake and stepping behind the wheel of the No. 6 machine. Over the past five years, RFK Racing described him as shaping the team's competitive direction by modernizing its efforts with an ambitious commitment to process and technology.
Chip Bowers and RFK Leadership Address the Future of the No. 6 Ford
RFK Racing president Chip Bowers praised the departing champion for investing far beyond his duties on race day. Bowers noted that Keselowski actively reshaped how the team operated behind the scenes.
We are big fans of Brad as a person, driver, and colleague. The impact Brad has made on our organization has been felt by everyone associated with RFK Racing. He’s undoubtedly been a terrific representative of our collective efforts both on and off the track, Chip Bowers
He was not simply driving the No. 6 car but investing himself in the future of the team and helping us think differently about what RFK Racing could become. We have tremendous respect for Brad as a champion, competitor, and leader, and we are grateful for the energy and commitment he has brought to RFK. Brad has been clear about his desire to continue competing for years to come, and we respect and support him in pursuing the path that best allows him to achieve those goals. Chip Bowers
The separation leaves two major vacancies at RFK: a driver for the No. 6 entry and a new head of competition. The organization confirmed that the search will begin immediately. RFK Racing will continue under the ownership of Jack Roush’s Roush Enterprises and Fenway Sports Group.
Negotiations Breakdown and the 2027 Charter Dilemma
Contract negotiations between Keselowski and the RFK Racing board broke down, leading to the split. Because Keselowski does not have a controlling interest in the team, a statement from RFK indicated it would try to buy him out, and RFK Racing and Keselowski intend to collaboratively and mutually
work through the appropriate next steps regarding his existing ownership interest in the organization.
The timing intersects with an ongoing roster puzzle for 2027. Chris Buescher and Ryan Preece are set to drive full-time. Aiming to field three full-time entries in 2027, the squad is actively seeking a third charter, though plans for the No. 6 entry remain undetermined. Whether the organization cuts to two cars or replaces Keselowski in the No. 6 car is still to be determined, and it is also possible the team runs a third car part time.
Brad Keselowski Rules Out Retirement After RFK Exit
Keselowski will finish out the 2026 season in the No. 6 Ford. Following initial reports by The Athletic, the driver released a statement on X on Tuesday to verify his choice, making it clear that his 17-year tenure in NASCAR’s premier division will not conclude with his departure.
Keselowski will complete the remainder of the 2026 schedule in the No. 6 car before officially assessing his options, as his plans beyond 2026 are unknown but he is not planning to retire.
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