RFK Racing is reportedly preparing for a largeexpansion. Kenny Wallace, a veteran NASCAR driver and respected analyst, recently added fuel to the discussion with his pointed remark on social media regarding RFK Racing’s rumored plans.
Wallace posted:
“I can’t believe @RFKracing is starting another team since @NASCAR is failing.”
RFK Racing, formerly known as Roush Fenway Racing, is thought to be contemplating a move that may involve adding a third team to its roster. This expansion, hinted at by industry insider Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, is expected to be formally announced soon. Pockrass confirmed, as previously reported by Newsweek Sports:
“RFK Racing says it has a major announcement Tuesday w/ Keselowski, Buescher & others. A PR person for Tad Geschickter’s marketing company (that handles Kroger deal) also is on the advisory. When asked about 3rd car last wk, Brad said hopefully finalizing things within couple wks.” [sic]
James Gilbert/Getty Images
RFK Racing’s co-owner and driver, Brad Keselowski, is at the forefront of these expansion plans. Keselowski’s ambition extends beyond simply adding another team to the NASCAR circuit. He also envisions entering the IMSA series as an opportunity to nurture driving talent through various racing platforms.
For RFK Racing, one major component is the acquisition of a charter—an essential prerequisite for any team looking to field additional cars in NASCAR’s Cup Series. Collaborating with Rick Ware Racing (RWR), which holds two charters, could be a viable path forward for RFK Racing. By leasing a charter from RWR, RFK Racing could solidify its competitive capacity and better position itself within the current NASCAR landscape.
Another aspect of the expansion speculation involves a potential partnership with Kroger, a grocery industry giant. This collaboration could be instrumental in securing the financial backing required for such a big move. Some speculate that Ryan Preece, a driver with previous connections to Kroger through his tenure at JTG Daugherty Racing, might be part of the new lineup, though no official confirmation has been made.
Currently, Keselowski and Chris Buescher form the core of RFK Racing’s driving force. With Buescher having recently extended his contract, he remains a vital part of the team’s strategy.
This expansion comes amid the ongoing antitrust lawsuit filed against NASCAR by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. Speaking about the lawsuit, Keselowski previously explained:
“Took a deep breath and said, ‘Alright, I guess that’s where we are.’
“Obviously, we aren’t a part of this. We are but we’re not, right? Because anyone who is part of the garage is a part of it whether you want to be or not. So, see what happens, right?
“There’s always going to be fighting over the piece of the pie and all of that.
“The reality is, we want to grow the sport as a whole, I know that’s where my head’s at. I can’t control anything else that happens outside of my own world, but I can do whatever small part possible to grow NASCAR and motorsports as a whole and that’s really where my focus is.
“Just want peace.
“What I want is for our entire industry to become laser-focused on growing the sport, and to have incentives that connect to where we all win when that happens.”