Brad Keselowski isn’t just another former NASCAR star turned team owner—he’s quietly masterminding a championship-caliber operation at RFK Racing. While the spotlight often shines on powerhouse teams like Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing, Keselowski’s methodical, under-the-radar transformation of RFK is quickly making the team one of the most dangerous dark horses in NASCAR.
With RFK expanding to three cars in 2025, reuniting Keselowski with longtime crew chief Jeremy Bullins, and implementing a strategic overhaul, NASCAR veteran Kevin Harvick is sounding the alarm: The rest of the Cup Series better start paying attention.
The RFK Racing Evolution: From Struggler to Contender
When Keselowski took part ownership of RFK Racing in 2022, the team was a shadow of its former self. A lack of consistency and resources had left RFK on the outside looking in, with no playoff presence in 2024.
But step by step, Keselowski reshaped the culture, engineering strategy, and competitive mindset within the organization.
“I think that we’ve seen the power of Brad Keselowski and the things that he can do with your race team just by his knowledge of what’s going on with the car, how it’s driving, the people, and the places,” Harvick explained on his latest Happy Hour podcast.
“The improvements that they’ve made at RFK throughout the years are significant.”
Now, entering 2025, RFK is not just expanding—they’re making moves with championship-winning intent.
The Big 2025 Shift: A Three-Car Powerhouse
One of the most strategic decisions Keselowski has made is bringing in Ryan Preece, fresh off his tenure with Stewart-Haas Racing, to pilot RFK’s third car in 2025. This expansion signals serious ambitions—and Harvick knows Keselowski’s vision is playing the long game.
“The expectation isn’t to win just one race a year with Brad,” Harvick said. “The expectation is to race for a championship.”
The Bullins Factor: A Game-Changing Reunion
Perhaps the biggest chess move came when Keselowski reunited with his former crew chief, Jeremy Bullins, who will take over as the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse crew chief in 2025.
Together at Team Penske (2020-2021), Keselowski and Bullins won five Cup Series races, a chemistry that could be the final piece RFK needs to take the leap from contender to winner.
“Jeremy’s got experience. Brad and Jeremy obviously agree on what they’re doing, and they know they have to win more,” Harvick pointed out. “In the end, the expectation is for Brad to race for a championship.”
Bullins replaces Matt McCall, who led RFK to a Darlington victory in 2024 but couldn’t deliver the consistent top-tier performance Keselowski expects.
Keselowski’s decision wasn’t just about a change—it was about ensuring RFK has the leadership necessary to become a winning culture.
“That gives you a lot of confidence that he can create a culture with a team very quickly—a winning type of culture,” Harvick emphasized.
Final Thoughts: Is RFK NASCAR’s Sleeping Giant?
Brad Keselowski’s ownership style is all about precision and patience. While RFK Racing hasn’t dominated headlines, Harvick believes the team’s slow but steady transformation is one of the most dangerous developments in NASCAR.
With three cars, a championship-caliber crew chief, and a proven driver-owner at the helm, RFK Racing is on the verge of breaking into the NASCAR elite once again.
The question is: Will the rest of the Cup Series see it coming?
