Winning is the only answer – and Ryan Preece is determined to make that happen before 2026 rolls around.
The rest of the NASCAR Cup Series season has one clear‑cut objective for Ryan Preece and his RFK Racing crew: snag a victory and keep the momentum rolling toward a strong 2026 campaign. And guess what? This weekend’s return to Las Vegas Motor Speedway could be the perfect stage for that breakthrough.
Preece’s recent track record gives fans a reason to be excited. In his last outing at the 1.5‑mile circuit, he qualified an impressive 12th in the No. 60 Ford and fought his way up to finish third. “The mile‑and‑a‑half tracks have become my comfort zone,” Preece explained. “I’m leaning heavily on the experience of Brad Keselowski and Chris Buescher, and every lap feels smoother than the last.”
But here’s the part most people miss: Las Vegas isn’t just another stop on the schedule; it’s a benchmark for the team. After a solid early‑season run there, the crew sees the race as a litmus test for their ability to continue improving and, ultimately, contend for a win. “Our qualifying was strong, we’ve tweaked the car all day, and I feel the progress is real,” he added, radiating optimism.
Even though neither RFK nor Preece are in the playoff picture right now, the goal remains unchanged: win at all costs. The driver joined RFK Racing after Stewart‑Haas Racing folded, and the No. 60 team’s performance has surprised many. With three top‑five finishes and eleven top‑ten results, they’ve proven they can punch above their weight.
Preece admits the success is “shocking for a first‑year crew that’s still finding its groove,” yet he refuses to let that be the endpoint. “A win would lock us into the playoffs, but even without it, a solid 12th‑place standing in points isn’t a failure – it’s a foundation for a truly competitive season next year.”
He emphasizes control and consistency: “I focus on what I can manage. We’ve made big strides, and even when adversity hits, we find ways to execute. The ceiling feels incredibly high, and that fuels my excitement for 2026.”
Controversial take: Some analysts argue that chasing a win while outside the playoffs is a risky distraction that could jeopardize long‑term development. Others say it’s exactly the aggressive mindset needed to break through. What’s your view? Should a team out of the playoffs gamble for a win now, or focus solely on building for the future? Drop your thoughts in the comments – we love a good debate!
