One of NASCAR’s biggest open secrets this season is now official: Brad Keselowski is joining Roush Fenway Racing as a driver with a minority ownership stake beginning in 2022, the team announced Tuesday.
Keselowski currently drives the No. 2 Ford for Team Penske, which announced last week that Austin Cindric, the reigning second-tier Xfinity Series champion, will pilot the No. 2 car next season. Keselowski has been with Team Penske since 2010 and won the 2012 Cup Series championship with the organization.
But the 37-year-old driver was looking for ownership going into the future, and that was something Team Penske couldn’t offer. Keselowski will drive the No. 6 Ford for Roush Fenway Racing, replacing Ryan Newman, who’s future is unknown, team president Steve Newmark said.
“I’ve been very privileged to drive for Team Penske and to have the success we’ve had,” Keselowski said.
“It’s tough to leave that, and I don’t want to deny that in any shape or form. But this is a big dream of mine that was worth leaving it for. It’s not an easy transition. I know the work is going to be hard, and that is scary, right? It’s scary to leave something where you know you can be successful to go to a new opportunity, but I believe in this opportunity.”
"I believe in this opportunity."@keselowski | @roushfenway pic.twitter.com/jp2Fj6B7ta
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) July 20, 2021
Keselowski said in addition to wanting an ownership role, he was also looking for a long-term deal to secure his future and this “incredible opportunity” offers him a chance to contribute in the competition department.
“I’ve been studying my whole life for this moment and I’m ready for the test,” Keselowski added, via NBC Sports.
Brad Keselowski said he wanted to be involved in the sport after his racing career is over. He now has that with an ownership stake and leadership role at Roush Fenway as well as a driving role. pic.twitter.com/uXC17MNK51
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) July 20, 2021
“I’m truly excited about this partnership with Brad,” team owner Jack Roush said Tuesday, via NASCAR.com. “I think it will bring a lot to the organization, from not only Brad’s ability behind the wheel, but a rejuvenation and fresh perspective across our teams. I’ve had the opportunity to watch Brad for a number of years, as he has fought and clawed his way up the ladder, molding himself into a champion and one of the top drivers in our sport. I’ve always admired his resolve and determination. I’m very pleased that he has chosen to be a part of our organization and I’m proud to partner with him moving into the future.”
Driving his entire full-time NASCAR Cup Series career with Team Penske, Keselowski accumulated 34 of his 35 career wins, in addition to the 2012 title.
With one win this season, Keselowski is currently ninth in the regular-season standings and projected to start the 16-driver, 10-race playoffs this fall ranked 10th.
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