Brad Keselowski‘s participation in the opening events of the 2026 NASCAR season is currently uncertain after he suffered a broken femur during the off-season. The RFK Racing driver, who was injured in a ski accident in mid-December, remains in recovery and has yet to secure a valid NASCAR license, putting his start at both the Cook Out Clash and potentially the Daytona 500 in jeopardy.
Keselowski fractured his right femur around December 18 after falling from a vehicle while skiing. Although his recovery is progressing better than initially expected, he has not yet fully healed, with doctors estimating it will take several months before he can return to racing. The 41-year-old has been sharing updates on social media but still awaits medical clearance and approval from NASCAR officials to compete.
Missing Season Opener and Awaiting Licensing Tests
Due to the ongoing recovery process, Keselowski is confirmed to miss the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. His status for the Daytona 500 remains unresolved as he has not obtained the required NASCAR driver’s license, which involves passing a series of assessments to ensure his fitness to race. These evaluations were scheduled toward the end of the week, but failure to meet the medical standards would prevent his participation at Daytona and any other events.
Short answer- NO
Long answer- I don’t currently have a valid NASCAR driver’s license. Scheduled to take the different tests end of the week. Must pass to drive the car at DAYTONA or anywhere else. Big week ahead
Brad Keselowski said via X, @keselowski.
Career Milestones and Keselowski’s Ambition Amid Recovery
Brad Keselowski began his NASCAR career in 2004 in the Truck Series, steadily advancing to the Cup Series where he races for RFK Racing. Over his career, Keselowski has amassed over 600 Cup Series starts and aims to reach a milestone of 900 total race starts across NASCAR’s top tiers—a feat only previously achieved by Richard Petty and Ricky Rudd.
Keselowski estimates that reaching 900 starts will require approximately eight more seasons of competition. This goal provides him with additional motivation as he works through the healing process following his injury, highlighting his commitment to continue competing at the highest level despite the current setback.
A few people have sent me this which got me thinking… 900 starts sounds nice to me. Will take about 8 more seasons, Definitely doable. Great broken leg recovery motivation. Thanks to all who’ve sent this to me.
Brad Keselowski said via X, @keselowski.
2026 Season Start Delayed and Keselowski’s Prospects
Complicating Keselowski’s return, the 2026 NASCAR season itself has experienced delays, with the Cook Out Clash postponed multiple times due to heavy snow. As the sport’s schedule remains fluid, Keselowski is focused on achieving full recovery to resume racing as soon as possible. The uncertainty surrounding his physical readiness and licensing tests continues to cast doubt over his participation in early season races, including the prestigious Daytona 500.
This season represents a critical moment in Keselowski’s career, balancing recovery with his determination to compete at the forefront of stock car racing. Fans and teams alike await updates on his recovery progress, which will dictate his involvement as the NASCAR season unfolds.
Short answer- NO
Long answer- I don’t currently have a valid NASCAR driver’s license. Scheduled to take the different tests end of the week. Must pass to drive the car at DAYTONA or anywhere else.
Big week ahead https://t.co/T4Us4hVjV7
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) February 2, 2026
A few people have sent me this which got me thinking…
900 starts sounds nice to me.
Will take about 8 more seasons, Definitely doable.Great broken leg recovery motivation. Thanks to all who’ve sent this to me. https://t.co/HYv96UTFwI
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) January 17, 2026
