ATLANTA, GA – MARCH 19: Brad Keselowski 6 RFK Racing King s Hawaiian Ford looks on before the running of the NASCAR, Motorsport, USA Cup Series Ambetter Health 400 on March 19, 2023, at Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton, GA.Photo by Jeffrey Vest/Icon Sportswire AUTO: MAR 19 NASCAR Cup Series Ambetter Health 400 Icon230319501
Facing a sudden contract cancellation is devastating for any NASCAR driver who has fought hard to climb the ranks. They might feel disheartened and question their future in the sport.
This is exactly what happened with Brad Keselowski early in his career when his deal with Hendrick Motorsports fell through. Talking to the Athletic, Keselowski recently opened up on the situation back in the day. He also mentioned why he did not file a case against the team.
Navigating the unexpected turn with Hendrick Motorsports in Brad Keselowski’s Racing Journey
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Back in 2008, Brad Keselowski encountered a challenging situation when he came close to sealing a deal with Hendrick Motorsports to drive their No. 5 Kellogg’s/Carquest Chevrolet. As the 2009 season kicked off, Mark Martin secured a win at Phoenix for Hendrick, while Keselowski triumphed at Talladega for Phoenix Racing. via Getty RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – APRIL 03: Brad Keselowski, driver of the #6 Violet Defense Ford, waves to fans onstage during driver intros prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond Raceway on April 03, 2022 in Richmond, Virginia. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) However, things took a sudden turn when Keselowski received a call announcing the cancellation of the Hendrick Motorsports deal. Initially shocked and needing time to process the unexpected change, Keselowski later admitted that things ultimately fell into place for him. When the reputed publication asked him how could HMS do that despite having a contract in place. Keselowski told The Athletic, “Contracts are paper. I don’t care who you are — contracts can always be beaten. And what was I going to do, take somebody to court? I would never have a job in this sport again.”
Keselowski found his success eventually, just not with HMS
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Although he did not secure a seat with HMS, little did he know, he was on the fast track to success. However, his journey would have more twists and turns than the tracks he raced on.
via Getty HAMPTON, GEORGIA – MARCH 20: Brad Keselowski, the driver of the #6 Kohler Generators Chevrolet, waits backstage during driver intros prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway on March 20, 2022, in Hampton, Georgia. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
Keselowski made a big stride with Team Penske in 2010. Like a duck to water, he adapted quickly, clinching his first Cup Series championship in 2012. This victory marked a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his determination and skill behind the wheel.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
Despite hitting a few speed bumps along the way, Keselowski continued to persevere. Proving that when life throws a curveball, it’s important to stay in the driver’s seat. In the end, everything worked out for him. Moreover, he emerged as a prominent figure in the world of NASCAR racing.
WATCH THIS STORY: “You Better Pay Attention”- Denny Hamlin Sends Stern Warning to Competitors as He Teases “Game Changer” Updates for JGR