About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RFK Racing has officially named Ryan Preece as Brad Keselowski 's replacement in the No. 6 Ford Mustang for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season. The announcement marks a major change for the organization as Keselowski prepares to continue his driving career elsewhere.
Preece will move from the No. 60 to the team's flagship entry after spending the past two seasons with RFK. The team confirmed on November 4 that his current crew, led by crew chief Derrick Finley, will also transition to the No. 6. The car will remain a chartered entry for the full 2027 season.
Ryan Preece before the NASCAR Cup Series Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway. Greg Atkins-Imagn Images
Former No. 6 driver Mark Martin also reacted to the announcement, welcoming Preece to the iconic car.
"Congratulations @RyanPreece_ I am proud to have you in the 6," Martin wrote on X.
Preece had tagged Martin in a previous post, writing, "It's all Gucci."
Preece's promotion comes after Keselowski confirmed in September that he would conclude his time as the No. 6 driver following the 2026 season. The 2012 Cup Series champion joined the organization as a driver and co-owner ahead of the 2022 campaign.
The two sides later agreed to let Keselowski continue racing with another organization while retaining a passive investment in RFK. He stepped away from the team's governance, competition oversight, and board participation.
Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing driver Brad Keselowski before the Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway. Greg Atkins-Imagn Images
Preece now inherits one of the most recognizable numbers in NASCAR. Martin drove the No. 6 for Roush Racing from 1988 through 2006, collecting 35 Cup Series victories in the car.
Martin also offered his assessment of RFK's decision in the team's announcement .
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Mark Martin celebrates in victory lane after winning the Lifelock.com 400 at Chicagoland Speedway.Jerry Lai-Imagn Images
"I like Ryan Preece because he's a racer, plain and simple. He came up the hard way, and he's had to fight for everything he's gotten. That's something I respect. When he gets in a race car, he gives you everything he's got, and he's not going to be satisfied just riding around. That number means a lot to me, and I think Ryan is a great fit to carry it forward," Martin said.
The move also carries personal significance for Preece, who frequently drove the No. 6 during his Modified racing career. One of the people who helped him along that journey was car owner Ed Partridge.
"I drove that number for Ed Partridge, who was more than just a car owner to me. He was one of my best friends and someone who believed in me and helped fund me an opportunity that changed my life," Preece said.
Preece also recalled winning their final Whelen Modified Tour race together at Richmond in 2021, shortly before Partridge died.
The 2026 season has been a significant one for Preece. He won the Cook Out Clash and secured his first points-paying Cup Series victory at Daytona International Speedway in August, earning a place in the Chase.
RFK president Chip Bowers praised Preece's progression and said the team believes he is the right driver to continue the No. 6's history.
Meanwhile, RFK has yet to announce its plans for the No. 60 entry. The organization previously stated its intention to continue as a three-car Cup Series team in 2027, although one of its current charters is set to move to Legacy Motor Club.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the Racing section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: Sports
