As the NASCAR Cup Series gears up for the 2027 season, RFK Racing finds itself at a crossroads. Team owner and driver Brad Keselowski has shed light on the team’s strategic adjustments, particularly concerning the No. 60 car and driver Ryan Preece. With charter changes on the horizon, the team is bracing for a season of both challenges and opportunities.
Keselowski recently disclosed that the No. 60 Ford Mustang will compete as an open entry in the 2027 season. This decision stems from the lease of RFK Racing’s charter from Rick Ware Racing, which has been sold to Legacy Motor Club. Effective next year, Legacy Motor Club will take ownership of the charter, expanding their fleet to three full-time cars.
Navigating the charter landscape
The NASCAR Cup Series features 36 chartered teams each guaranteed a spot in every race. However, the No. 60 team’s status as an open entry means it will not have this assurance. Keselowski acknowledged the reality of the situation, stating, “The scenario is what it is. There’s no sugar-coating it. We have two charters for three teams next year, and we’re going to most likely race a third car unchartered, absent some situation I’m not aware of at the moment.”
Despite the challenges, Keselowski remains focused on making the most of the situation. “There’s not much we can do about it other than just go out and compete and make sure we’re being as financially prudent as possible,” he said. The team is committed to ensuring Preece’s participation in the season-opening Daytona 500, even if it means facing the possibility of not qualifying for other races.
Preece’s momentum and the Chase
Ryan Preece, driver of the No. 60 RFK Racing Ford Mustang Dark Horse, has been making waves in the NASCAR Cup Series. His recent victory in the regular season finale at Daytona International Speedway has propelled him into the Chase. Preece’s triumph was not just a personal achievement but also a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
Preece’s mindset heading into the Chase is one of optimism and aggression. “We have nothing to lose,” he stated. “The guys that are up front, like Denny, he’s had a phenomenal year. When I look at where we’re at, if we’re aggressive and it doesn’t work out, we’re at the bottom. So, we can throw the Hail Mary’s and do the risky things and if we get good results out of it, then that’s great.”
Preece’s team has shown remarkable perseverance, as evidenced by their performance at Darlington Raceway. Despite facing adversity, Preece clawed his way back from being a lap down to secure a top-ten finish in the Chase opener. His teammate, Chris Buescher, also demonstrated resilience, overcoming a bent toe link to finish 20th. Team owner Brad Keselowski, who started 12th, faced an early race incident but managed to finish 23rd.
The road ahead
As RFK Racing looks ahead to the 2027 season, the team is focused on leveraging their strengths and overcoming the challenges posed by the charter changes. Keselowski’s leadership and Preece’s determination will be crucial in navigating this new landscape. With the Chase underway and the 2027 season on the horizon, RFK Racing is poised to make the most of every opportunity.
The next event on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule is at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois. The race begins at 3:00 p.m. EDT with live coverage provided by USA Sports and the Motor Racing Network. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on RFK Racing and their journey through the challenges and triumphs of the NASCAR Cup Series.
