Preece receives Buescher comparison after strong 2025 NASCAR Cup Series performance

Speaking ahead of the Nashville Cup Series race, RFK Racing co-owner Brad Keselowski gave high praise to Ryan Preece after an impressive 2025 season so far. Comparing him to driver Chris Buescher, the Michigan-born driver is glad to have him under his umbrella.

The No. 60 Ford driver, currently sitting 14th in the drivers' standings, has proven his place in the sport and will be looking forward to racing in Nashville, a track he's shown success at in the past.

Discussing his performance, Keselowski said the following during the press conference ahead of the race. 

"I said this to someone the other day - forgive me, I can't remember who. It reminded me a lot of the Chris Buescher story where, you know, people looked at it and said, 'Uh, what do you see here?' and, 'I don't know if this is a good move,'" he admitted. "And I just felt really strong about it. You know, I liked his work ethic. I liked his talent. I just felt like he wasn't in the right situation - the same way I felt about Chris."

Ryan Preece, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing Ford

Photo by: Jonathan Bachman - Getty Images

He added that he felt it necessary to put him in the right environment where he could grow as a driver. 

"It just felt like the burden was on us to put him in the right position and to allow him to thrive in, you know, kind of the scheme that was made for him," he said.

Preece has already seen success this season, with one top-five finish and five top-10 finishes, two of which came from the last two races.

"And he's done just that," he continued. "He's put in the effort. He’s very hungry, he’s very driven. He’s in a spot where he’s got people that I think really believe in him and are engaged with him, and a system that is very supportive. And he's showing what he can do.

"So, I’m thrilled for him. I’m eager to see him win, and he’s been close a few times. I can’t wait to see him break through - that’ll be a good moment.

"But, you know, three or four years ago, I feel like we were having the same conversation about Chris Buescher. And now Chris is clearly the guy for the 17 car, has done all the right things, and is producing results. I feel like we're going to be saying the same thing over the next few years about Ryan.”