Brad Keselowski Follows Rick Hendrick’s Path with Major 2027 Announcement
Brad Keselowski, a prominent NASCAR driver and co-owner of RFK Racing, is making headlines with his desire to expand into sports car racing. His interest has grown in light of Ford’s major announcement regarding their plans for a hypercar intended to compete at Le Mans in 2027.
Keselowski Inspired by Rick Hendrick
Keselowski has openly expressed admiration for Rick Hendrick, the legendary NASCAR owner known for his effective leadership. The Michigan native recently stated, “Ford is building a hypercar for 2027 that is going to compete at Le Mans and maybe the United States. And if it competes in the United States, I’d like to own that team.” This statement signifies his ambition to take on a more significant role in racing.
Ford’s Commitment to Le Mans
Ford Racing has announced a factory hypercar program that aligns with their broader performance and electrification goals. As clarified by the Ford Racing general manager, this initiative is not merely a marketing ploy but a genuine commitment to competing in the top class of the FIA World Endurance Championship and the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Integration of NASCAR and Sports Car Racing
The Garage 56 program at Le Mans has opened doors for NASCAR teams to compete internationally. Hendrick Motorsports piloted a NASCAR next-gen Camaro in 2023 for this unique slot, showcasing the potential crossover between NASCAR and endurance racing. This provides a foundation for Keselowski’s aspirations, as he aims to blend his NASCAR expertise with the sports car world.
RFK Racing’s Historic Background
RFK Racing’s roots in NASCAR are profound, with co-owner Jack Roush having gained recognition through his successes in both IMSA and NASCAR. Reflecting on this legacy, Keselowski’s push for expansion into IMSA-style racing underscores his vision for RFK Racing’s future. He stated, “As NASCAR continues to get heavier into road course racing, I think that pedigree offers a lot of advantages.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
While the prospect of Keselowski leading a U.S.-based operation associated with Ford’s 2027 hypercar initiative is exciting, an official announcement has yet to be made. The confidence he expresses regarding this venture remains a topic of interest among fans and analysts alike.
Rick Hendrick’s Ongoing Legacy
As for Rick Hendrick, at 76 years old, he balances his commitments as the owner of NASCAR’s most successful team and the Hendrick Automotive Group. Despite facing health challenges, including recent leg surgery, Hendrick remains active in supporting his team. He noted, “I’m trying to run 100 dealerships… but I do have the ability to listen to every guy and to monitor what’s going on.”
Conclusion
Brad Keselowski’s ambitions in the evolving landscape of racing reflect a growing interest in hybrid avenues between NASCAR and endurance competitions. With Ford’s engagement in the hypercar market, the coming years hold promise for innovative developments in the world of motorsport.
