Challenges in the Life of Brad Keselowski in a Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 22, 2026

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Brad Keselowski's life and career.

Brad Keselowski is an American professional stock car racing driver, team owner, and entrepreneur. He currently competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for RFK Racing, a team he co-owns. He also owned Brad Keselowski Racing, which had two full-time trucks in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series for a decade.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2012: First DNF since 2012 Daytona 500

At the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte in 2013, Keselowski retired from the race after being wrecked by Danica Patrick, marking his first DNF since the 2012 Daytona 500. Before this, he had a disheartening All-Star race where he lost a transmission.

April 17, 2013: NASCAR announces penalties for rear-housing infraction

On Wednesday, April 17, 2013, NASCAR announced penalties for Keselowski and Logano's teams due to a rear-housing infraction. Key team members were suspended, Wolfe was fined, and Keselowski was docked 25 driver points. Penske Racing appealed, but the penalties were upheld.

May 2013: Worst spring starts of a NASCAR season

From April to May in 2013, Keselowski experienced one of the worst spring starts of a NASCAR season.

2013: Finishes fifteenth at Talladega

In 2013 at Talladega, Keselowski finished in fifteenth place after a misunderstanding during a restart. He was unhappy with race winner David Ragan due to being told to restart on the low line.

2021: Daytona 500 Crash and GEICO 500 Win

During the 2021 Daytona 500, Keselowski crashed on the final lap, but walked away uninjured, finishing thirteenth. Later in 2021, he won the GEICO 500.