RFK Racing driver Brad Keselowski shared concerns about the NASCAR approval process. He praises how it works in the sport’s top series while questioning how consistently that approach is applied across the development ladder.
The 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion said the system used in the NASCAR Cup Series has produced positive results, but he believes NASCAR should ensure the same philosophy carries through the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Keselowski suggested that any rule-approval process should align with NASCAR’s long-term strategy for each level of competition.
Brad Keselowski on the NASCAR Approval Process and Development Ladder
Keselowski pointed to the structure of NASCAR’s four national levels as a reason why rules and approvals must be carefully aligned with the purpose of each series.
“It has to connect to the strategy of what NASCAR wants the series to be,” Keselowski said. “Obviously NASCAR has four tiers. You’ve got the ARCA Series at the bottom, then the Truck Series, the Xfinity Series and the Cup Series.”
The RFK Racing driver emphasized that each tier plays a different role in the sport, meaning the approval process for technical changes should reflect that structure.
Cup Series Changes Show Benefits of NASCAR’s Current Review Process
Keselowski credited the NASCAR Cup Series approval process for helping introduce competitive improvements in recent seasons.
One example came in 2026 when NASCAR implemented a 750-horsepower package at short tracks and road courses. The change was paired with softer Goodyear tire compounds to increase tire wear and improve race strategy.
During the NASCAR race at Phoenix Raceway, one of the first events to feature the updated package, the combination produced stronger racing conditions. Drivers experienced more tire falloff and greater passing opportunities without major disruptions.
“I think the Cup Series approval process is actually quite good.”
Brad Keselowski Questions NASCAR’s Approach in Lower Series
While praising the Cup Series process, Keselowski suggested the same level of evaluation might not always occur in the sport’s other national divisions.
“If you zoom out and look at the big picture and ask what we want those series to be, then the approval process should connect to that accordingly. I’m not sure that’s necessarily the case right now.”
Keselowski acknowledged that the Cup Series naturally receives the most attention, but he believes it remains important to evaluate how rule decisions affect the broader NASCAR structure.
“I think a lot of the focus probably gets put on the Cup Series, rightfully so. But the other series, there are questions that are probably fair to ask.”
Keselowski also discussed RFK Racing’s plans for Darlington Raceway’s throwback weekend.
All three RFK Racing entries are scheduled to run throwback paint schemes inspired by Biffle’s cars during his successful run with the organization.
“I knew we were going to do them, but it didn’t really hit home until I walked out on the shop floor and saw them. There are still a number of people at RFK who were there when Greg was there. Those cars have a lot of meaning to them, and it’s good to be able to honor Greg.”
Brad Keselowski Reveals What Concerns Him About NASCAR Approval Process