Brad Keselowski to Leave RFK Racing After 2026 Season

The 2012 Cup Series champion plans to continue his driving career with a new organization starting in 2027.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Motorsports

Brad Keselowski to Leave RFK Racing After 2026 Season

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Brad Keselowski announced his departure from the No. 6 Ford at RFK Racing following the conclusion of the 2026 season. The veteran driver will also divest his 20% ownership stake in the team as he prepares to transition to a new racing organization in 2027.

Why it matters

The move marks a significant shift for both the driver and the team, as Keselowski intends to remain a competitor in the NASCAR Cup Series after parting ways with the organization he held equity in. This decision follows a failed attempt by the driver to purchase the team outright from Roush Enterprises and Fenway Sports Group.

Keselowski, the 2012 Cup Series champion, currently drives the No. 6 Ford for RFK Racing. He is selling his 20% equity stake in the team as part of the separation agreement.

The players

Brad Keselowski

He is a professional race car driver who won the NASCAR Cup Series championship in 2012.

RFK Racing

This is a NASCAR racing team formerly known as Roush Fenway Racing.

Roush Enterprises

This organization is a primary owner of the RFK Racing team.

Fenway Sports Group

This company is a major ownership group that holds a stake in RFK Racing.

The details

Keselowski confirmed his plans during a press conference held at Martinsville Speedway. While he intends to continue his driving career elsewhere, the team and driver reached an agreement to conclude their partnership at the end of the 2026 racing calendar.

September 29, 2026: RFK Racing announced Keselowski would leave the team.
October 23, 2026: A report indicated that Keselowski previously attempted to buy RFK Racing.
October 27, 2026: Keselowski announced he would hold a press conference.
October 31, 2026: Keselowski held the press conference at Martinsville Speedway.
2027: Keselowski is scheduled to begin driving for another organization.

Season Trajectory

The departure follows a failed bid by the driver to purchase the team, effectively closing his tenure as both an owner and a primary pilot at RFK Racing. This transition fundamentally alters the team's long-term lineup and the market for veteran talent heading into the 2027 season.

The team must now identify a new driver for the No. 6 car for the 2027 campaign, impacting the team's future competitiveness. Meanwhile, fantasy participants and team followers should monitor upcoming contract announcements to determine the driver's next landing spot.

The takeaway

Drivers who hold ownership stakes often navigate complex exits when professional goals align differently than business outcomes. Fans should look for future announcements regarding which organization will secure the veteran's services for the 2027 season.