Copy of Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 20 Days

By Adam Carabine

Counting down the final 30 days to the 2026 Daytona 500, we are looking at last year's Top 30 drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Today's driver: Brad Keselowski

Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images

No. 6 Car – Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing (RFK)

2025 Stats

Standings	20th
Wins	0
Points	762
Stage Points	90
Stage Wins	2
Laps Led	222
Lead Lap Finishes	23
Average Finish	18.5
DNFs	7
Races since last win	59

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

It’s been a tumultuous off-season for Brad K, as he broke his leg on a skiing trip.  In fact, he is not going to be ready to race in the Clash this year, with Corey LaJoie taking over his car for the exhibition race.  It’s hard to know whether a lack of offseason prep might hurt his 2026 campaign, but we may see some early growing pains.  Brad has been a couple of seasons now without a win, and a success for him and his No. 6 team would be to break that winless streak this year.

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

We all know Brad Keselowski has skills at drafting tracks, so a best-case scenario for him would be to return and win the Daytona 500.  It resets his winless streak, and also gives him a great start returning from leg surgery in the offseason.  I don’t know if the playoffs are in the cards for him this season, but a win or two would certainly help.

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

Expect a sluggish start, which then creates a hole he can’t claw out of for the rest of the season.  Top 20 in points is probably doable, but with a leg surgery at his age, I expect his recovery will be slower than he’d like.

Bold Prediction?

Keselowski isn’t medically cleared in time and misses the Daytona 500.