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Brad Keselowski’s Behind-the-Scenes Push for Honda’s Entry into NASCAR Amid Rising EV Influence

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
February 26, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
0
Brad Keselowski’s Elusive Quest for Daytona 500 Glory

Feb 14, 2025; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Brad Keselowski (6) during practice for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images

In 2012, just before the season’s climax, auto racing juggernaut, Roger Penske, passionately expressed his desire to clinch a championship title for Dodge. His hopes were pinned on the young and promising Team Penske driver, Brad Keselowski. The season concluded with Dodge celebrating its first championship victory in 37 years, thanks to a stellar 15th-place finish by Keselowski at the Ford EcoBoost 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

However, the euphoria was ephemeral as Team Penske soon parted ways with Dodge to join Ford, leaving NASCAR with only three manufacturers in the ring: Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota. As we usher in 2025, NASCAR desperately seeks to introduce a fourth Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) into the fray. Dodge and Honda are the two names currently dominating the discussion.

Over a decade has passed since Keselowski etched indelible memories into NASCAR history with Dodge. It wouldn’t be a shock to see him advocate for Dodge’s return to NASCAR. However, a surprising turn of events suggests that Keselowski, now the owner of RFK Racing, has changed loyalties and is actively promoting Honda’s NASCAR entry.

Keselowski, long a vocal proponent of more OEMs in NASCAR, has emphasized the importance of balance and competition. Now, new information reveals that he’s not just talking the talk but walking the walk. Recent reports indicate that Honda is seriously considering a NASCAR entry, with Keselowski playing a pivotal role in facilitating Honda’s entry into the sport.

While there’s no indication that RFK Racing is planning to sever ties with Ford, Keselowski seems to be exploring various avenues to pave the way for Honda’s NASCAR debut. This comes at a time when Honda is reportedly contemplating withdrawing from their IndyCar operations. Keselowski has been candid about the need for more manufacturers in NASCAR for years, arguing that a healthy competition requires four or five OEMs.

Keselowski has highlighted that NASCAR teams are investing heavily, primarily in the technical aspects rather than marketing and branding. This trend has made it difficult for new manufacturers to see the value in entering the sport. However, Honda’s entry could revolutionize NASCAR. With a strong presence in motorsports, Honda has powered Red Bull to multiple Formula 1 championships and has been a dominant engine supplier in IndyCar.

As rumors of Honda’s exit from IndyCar gain traction, NASCAR could be the manufacturer’s next destination. With the majority of their business based in the Americas, Honda’s participation in stock car racing seems logical. Toyota, another Japanese brand, has already tasted success in NASCAR, providing a blueprint for Honda. However, they face formidable competition from Dodge, Keselowski’s former partner, who has reportedly submitted an application to join the NASCAR Xfinity series from the 2026 season.

As Honda and Dodge vie for a spot in NASCAR, the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) poses a significant challenge. Keselowski, who is reportedly spearheading Honda’s bid, has openly discussed the impact of EVs in NASCAR. Traditional manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Toyota are grappling with the rapid advancement of EV brands like Tesla and Rivian. This has left NASCAR at a crossroads: should they embrace EVs and risk alienating traditional partners, or resist the change and risk losing relevance in a rapidly evolving market?

NASCAR has already dabbled in hybrid power, testing a prototype at the Daytona 500. A shift in this direction could lure in new players, including non-traditional automakers like Tesla. However, for Honda, whose motorsports history is firmly rooted in combustion engines, a rapid shift towards electrification could dampen their interest in joining NASCAR. As NASCAR strives to secure its future, the addition of a fourth OEM appears imminent.

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