rifan muazin
Bowman Gray Stadium, NC – In a significant driver change for the upcoming pre-season exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium, RFK Racing announced that Corey LaJoie will pilot the No. 6 Ford Mustang, stepping in for the recuperating Brad Keselowski. Keselowski, sidelined due to a broken leg sustained in a skiing accident on December 18th, has undergone successful surgery and is currently focused on his recovery, opting to sit out the popular early-season event.
The incident that led to Keselowski’s injury occurred while he was enjoying a family skiing trip. The broken leg necessitated prompt surgical intervention, with the procedure reportedly going well. While Keselowski’s absence from the track is temporary, the timing of his injury places him on the sidelines for The Clash, an event held two weeks prior to the 68th running of the Daytona 500, scheduled for February 15th. Keselowski, a veteran driver and co-owner of RFK Racing, had participated in last year’s Bowman Gray Clash, starting fifth and finishing 21st in the historic short-track event.
Corey LaJoie, a familiar face in the NASCAR Cup Series, brings a wealth of experience to the No. 6 Ford Mustang. With nearly 300 Cup Series starts to his name, LaJoie is a seasoned competitor. In the recently concluded 2025 season, he competed on a part-time basis in the Cup Series, making four starts, and also participated in nine Truck Series races. Beyond his on-track endeavors, LaJoie has also taken on a role as an analyst for NASCAR on Prime Video, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of the sport.
LaJoie expressed his willingness to contribute to the team, stating on social media, "Happy to be of service. Wishing BK a speedy recovery. Let’s go get another trophy at The Madhouse." His reference to "The Madhouse" highlights Bowman Gray Stadium’s reputation as a notoriously challenging and exciting venue.
Related News :
- Kyle Larson Expresses Empathy for Denny Hamlin’s Heartbreak in NASCAR Championship Stumble
- Denny Hamlin Demands Apology from SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Hosts Following Lawsuit Settlement
- NASCAR Antitrust Trial: Day Two Unearths Internal Disagreements Over Team Charter Terms
- Trackhouse Racing’s Bold Numbering Strategy for 2026 Unveiled in Heartfelt Video, Assigning Iconic #97 to Shane van Gisbergen.
- Larson Crowned NASCAR Cup Series Champion in Dramatic Season Finale, Hamlin Secures Runner-Up
Furthermore, LaJoie possesses a notable history of success at Bowman Gray Stadium. In 2012, he secured a dominant victory in an ARCA East (then known as the K&N East) Series race at the quarter-mile oval. During that event, LaJoie led an impressive 118 of the 153 laps, outdueling a field that included several drivers he is likely to face again soon in NASCAR competition, such as Bubba Wallace, Kyle Larson, Daniel Suarez, and Chase Elliott. This past performance underscores LaJoie’s capability on short tracks and his familiarity with the unique demands of Bowman Gray.
The 34-year-old driver last competed in The Clash during the 2024 season when the exhibition event was held at the unconventional setting of the LA Memorial Coliseum. Driving for Spire Motorsports at that time, LaJoie finished the race in 17th position. His inclusion in this year’s event at Bowman Gray Stadium marks his return to the prestigious season-opening showcase, albeit under different circumstances.
RFK Racing, co-owned by Keselowski and Jack Roush, has a storied history in NASCAR. The team has achieved numerous championships and victories across various series. Keselowski’s tenure with the team, both as a driver and a leader, has been marked by competitive performances and a commitment to building a strong organization. His injury represents a temporary setback for his personal racing aspirations, but the team’s decision to field LaJoie demonstrates their dedication to maintaining a strong presence in all events.
The Bowman Gray Stadium Clash is renowned for its unique atmosphere and its status as a traditional kickoff to the NASCAR season. The intimate confines of the stadium, often referred to as "The Madhouse," typically produce intense, close-quarters racing, demanding precision and bravery from the drivers. For LaJoie, stepping into the No. 6 car at such a venue presents an opportunity to showcase his talents and contribute to RFK Racing’s early-season efforts.
As Keselowski continues his rehabilitation, the focus shifts to LaJoie’s performance behind the wheel of the No. 6 Ford. His prior success at Bowman Gray, combined with his extensive Cup Series experience, positions him as a credible contender in the exhibition race. The driver change, while born out of necessity due to Keselowski’s injury, also provides an intriguing storyline as LaJoie aims to make his mark in an event that often sets the tone for the championship season ahead. The progress of Brad Keselowski’s recovery will be closely watched by the NASCAR community, with his return to the cockpit eagerly anticipated following his successful surgery.
💬 Tinggalkan Komentar dengan Facebook
Author Profile
Latest entries
Nascar CupFebruary 22, 2026Gaston County Fire Services Concludes Hamlin Family Residence Blaze Accidental, Origin Remains Elusive
Nascar CupFebruary 21, 2026Brad Keselowski Navigates Recovery, Road Racing Specialist Joey Hand on Standby for COTA Challenge
Nascar CupFebruary 21, 2026Spire Motorsports Officially Welcomes Chris Gabehart Amidst Legal Storm with Joe Gibbs Racing
Nascar CupFebruary 21, 2026Rain Washes Out Atlanta NASCAR Cup Qualifying, Tyler Reddick Secures Pole Amidst Revised Lineup Determination
Jonas Leo
