Brad Keselowski Almost Gave Joey Logano a Masterclass, Shocking Bubba Wallace Insiders

Brad Keselowski’s recent Brickyard 400 performance was a thrilling mix of strategy and near-win, echoing the fuel-saving tactics his teammate Joey Logano has demonstrated in the past. Starting 26th and facing a pit-exit penalty, Keselowski’s run was anything but smooth. But as the king of fuel economy on the track, everyone expected a little more mileage from the RFK Racing driver. So why did his plan backfire this time? Freddie Kraft shares his perspective on Keselowski’s performance, breaking down the thinking behind his strategy on the podcast with Casey Boat.

Keselowski’s Fuel Strategy Revealed

Brad Keselowski’s gamble on fuel strategy was a key moment in the race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He went from leading the field for much of the final laps to running dangerously low as the race neared its end! According to sources familiar with the matter, the No. 6 Ford driver had a plan to push until he ran out of fuel, which should have happened right after crossing the finish line. However, this time, things didn’t go as planned and cost him the checkered flag.

On the Door Bumper Clear podcast, Bubba Wallace spotter Freddie Kraft discussed Brad Keselowski’s impressive fuel-saving strategy during the Brickyard 400. Casey Boat kicked things off by expressing surprise at how long Keselowski was able to stay on the track without stopping. Kraft responded, acknowledging that it’s no small feat at a track like Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Adding that while 23XI Racing was also trying to save fuel, they ended up breaking down just after taking the checkered flag. He also noted that Keselowski stopped ten laps earlier than them and managed his fuel consumption brilliantly throughout the race.

“I don’t know where you were in terms of fuel, but we ran out as soon as we crossed the checkered flag yesterday. He stopped 10 laps before us and we all saved money.” He said this while explaining their fuel system on the rails. “Brad has always been one of the best at saving fuel and getting the most out of it. It wasn’t really a surprise, but like we were saying about some of the guys up there, who were out of the race, they’d just scan the radio six and they’d be like, ‘Man, I think they’re going to go all out.’”

As the race progressed, Keselowski’s team implemented a bold plan to push the car to its limits, allowing it to move from the back of the field to the front. It was a strategy reminiscent of Joey Logano’s triumph at Nashville Superspeedway, where he managed to hold on to the lead despite running out of fuel. A thrilling finish marked Logano’s victory, as he crossed the finish line without a drop of gas to spare, highlighting the crucial role fuel management plays in NASCAR racing. Perhaps Keselowski and his team were aiming to replicate that success, pushing his No. 6 Ford to its limits while he led the race. He might even have succeeded if circumstances hadn’t gotten in the way of his calculations!

It was Kyle Busch’s crash that really disrupted his strategy, and instead of celebrating a potential second Brickyard 400 victory, he had to settle for a disappointing 21st-place finish. The race, full of tension and excitement, ended with Keselowski’s hopes dashed, while Kyle Larson emerged victorious, winning his first Brickyard 400. Despite the uncertainty, Kraft believed the rival team’s risk on fuel could have paid off, even if he had perhaps run out just before the end. Ultimately, Keselowski’s ability to make his fuel last longer than anyone else highlighted his talent and strategic thinking on the track.

RFK Driver Maintains Competitive Spirit in NASCAR

Keselowski has always been an effective fuel manager, often putting him in competitive positions during critical moments in races. His ability to assess fuel levels and make strategic decisions about when to push or conserve has earned him the respect of his peers and insiders alike. Even after the disappointment of the Brickyard 400, his performance is a reminder of the importance of fuel strategy in NASCAR and highlights the ongoing rivalry and strategic battles between drivers like Keselowski and Logano.

A tough competitor, Keselowski has a wealth of wins and performances in the past and has what it takes to continue to excel in the sport. His talent for fuel management has not only helped him secure victories, but has also shaped his reputation as a driver who can navigate the complexities of race strategy. This skill was particularly evident in his early victories, such as his championship season in 2012 and his memorable Brickyard 400 victory in 2018. So there is no doubt that he will continue to adapt and refine his approach on the track.

His experiences, including recent challenges on the track, will only add to his depth as a driver, ensuring he remains a key player in the NASCAR landscape for years to come. As NASCAR competition continues to intensify, do you think he will be ready for the next challenge in fuel management?