Brad Keselowski's Path to the Daytona 500: Approval Test Looms

Former NASCAR Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski is facing a crucial approval test on February 9, which will determine his eligibility to compete in the upcoming Daytona 500 on February 15. This test is particularly significant as Keselowski, who suffered a broken femur during a ski trip last December, must not only pass the test but also obtain a valid NASCAR driver’s license to participate in the race.

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Keselowski's injury required surgery and has raised questions about his readiness for the 2026 season. His recovery timeline has been closely monitored, especially as he aims to return for the Daytona 500. The 41-year-old driver has been vocal about his situation, indicating that he was unable to compete in the Cook Out Clash exhibition race due to his ongoing recovery.

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Brad Keselowski, a 36-time Cup Series winner, is the co-owner of RFK Racing and drives the #6 Ford. This season marks his 17th full-time campaign in the NASCAR Cup Series. In his absence, Corey LaJoie stepped in to drive the #6 car during the Cook Out Clash, finishing third in the Last Chance Qualifier but failing to qualify for the main event. LaJoie is also set to race in the Daytona 500, driving the #99 Ford for RFK Racing.

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In a recent exchange on social media, Keselowski confirmed that his approval test had been postponed due to weather conditions. He stated, “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.” This highlights the urgency of his situation as he prepares for the test.

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While Keselowski is focused on his return, there are concerns regarding the impact of his injury on his performance. Critics may question whether he can regain his competitive edge after such a significant injury, especially in a high-stakes environment like the Daytona 500.

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The outcome of Keselowski's approval test on February 9 will be pivotal. If he passes, he will be cleared to race in the Daytona 500, a goal he has yet to achieve despite a best finish of third in 2014. Should he fail, LaJoie will continue to represent RFK Racing in the prestigious event.

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• “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, NASCAR Driver and Co-Owner of RFK Racing

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• “I hadn’t been in a Cup car on a short track around the short track tire in almost two years. To jump in the deep end against these guys, these guys again and again show they are the best at driver stock cars, so it was cool to dice it up with them,” — Corey LaJoie, NASCAR Driver

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