CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The worst-kept secret in NASCAR was made official Tuesday, when Brad Keselowski announced he will join Roush Fenway Racing starting in 2022, including a minority ownership stake for Keselowski.
Keselowski has spent the majority of his NASCAR Cup Series career with Team Penske, which announced he would not return to the team's No. 2 next season. Owner Roger Penske said Keselowski requested an ownership stake in the team, which wasn't possible at the time. Keselowski will be replaced by Austin Cindric at Penske in 2022.
Keselowski will oversee the competition committee at Roush Fenway, as well as drive the team's flagship No. 6 Ford. Keselowski becomes the latest Cup Series champion to venture into team management, following successful moves by Tony Stewart and Jeff Gordon.
“I am thrilled to be able to share the news about this next venture with my fans, peers, and the industry,” said Keselowski. “This presents an opportunity to continue my on-track success with a strong team and a long-term commitment, but also dive into my passion of team ownership where I know I can be an asset to the future of the team. I am optimistic about what Jack, John and I can accomplish together, especially with a new era for our sport on the horizon (with the Next Gen car). Our goal is to win races and compete for championships at NASCAR’s top level, and we plan to do just that.”
Roush Fenway announced Tuesday that driver Chris Buescher will return as part of a two-car team in 2022. The plans for Ryan Newman, the current driver of the No. 6, are to be determined, but Roush Fenway's Steve Newmark said they offered the NASCAR veteran a part-time role.