Brad Keselowski moves closer to returning for the 2026 Daytona 500. Meanwhile, he maintains a steady recovery from a serious leg injury.
Team officials report no change in Brad Keselowski’s recovery plan. He also meets each medical milestone on schedule. Although Brad Keselowski has missed some preseason commitments, RFK Racing keeps strong confidence in his readiness for NASCAR’s season-opener on February 15.
RFK Racing shares strong recovery update
RFK Racing president Chip Bowers offered a positive update on Brad Keselowski’s status on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Chip Bowers highlighted Brad Keselowski’s steady progress and readiness for the new season.
“His rehab is going really well. He’s really bullish on his ability to be in the car for Daytona. Everything is going as planned. And he’s already in the simulator, so a lot of good stuff is happening.”
Bowers emphasized that RFK Racing operates smoothly while Brad Keselowski pursues his rehab. Additionally, Brad Keselowski stays actively involved with the team. He also remains committed to achieving the recovery goals set by doctors.
Brad Keselowski’s rehab work and personal update
Brad Keselowski takes an active role in his recovery. Consequently, he returns to simulator sessions to prepare for the Daytona 500. These sessions help Brad Keselowski stay sharp and minimize physical strain.
Keselowski quoted the interview clip from SiriusXM NASCAR Radio with Chip Bowers. Overall, Brad offers insight into the daily demands of rehab. It also reflects both progress and commitment.
Making steps= Taking steps
Putting in the effort for rehab all day/everyday means missing media day this year. Happy to say, my leg is starting to work and I’m looking really good for @DAYTONA
🤞🏻 https://t.co/NOJGekgt5I— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) January 21, 2026
Team officials also confirm that his daily routine includes extended rehab sessions. These sessions target strength, movement, and function.
Team plans and how the injury happened
RFK Racing remains optimistic but sets backup plans for early-season events. For example, Corey LaJoie stands ready to drive the No. 6 Ford in the Cook Out Clash if needed. He also remains the standby driver for the Daytona 500. RFK Racing considers these plans precautionary. They do not reflect diminished expectations for Brad Keselowski.
Brad suffered his injury in December 2025 during a family ski trip. Subsequently, he slipped and broke his right femur. Doctors performed surgery soon after and stabilized the bone with a titanium plate. They confirmed the break was clean. Additionally, doctors projected an eight-week recovery timeline.
Team officials report that Brad Keselowski’s injury responded well to treatment from the start. If Keselowski completes the final medical checks as expected, he will return for the Daytona 500. Ultimately, this will complete a recovery process that has stayed on schedule throughout the offseason.
Brad Keselowski Injury Update: RFK Racing Confident for 2026 Daytona 500