RFK Racing heads into the 2027 NASCAR season with a roster that looks, on paper, like a championship contender. Brad Keselowski, Ryan Preece and Chris Buescher sit among the top‑13 in points for the 2026 campaign, giving the organization a rare depth of talent.
Yet the team will enter the new year with just two chartered entries. The limited number of charters forces a difficult decision about which driver will retain the coveted spot.
Keselowski has signaled his intent to remain a full‑time competitor, and his existing relationship with the team makes him a strong candidate for one of the two guaranteed slots. Buescher, whose on‑track results and long‑standing partnership with RFK have been productive, is similarly positioned to secure the second charter.
That leaves Ryan Preece, who currently enjoys backing from grocery giant Kroger, in a precarious position. Without a charter, the No. 60 entry would have to qualify for every race, a task that becomes increasingly difficult at events that regularly attract more than 40 drivers.
The financial implications are stark. Running an unchartered car would strip the team of more than $5 million in potential earnings, while the price tag for acquiring a new charter hovers around $80 million. For RFK, the most cost‑effective path appears to be to keep the third car unchartered and rely on sponsor support to offset the reduced payouts.
Kroger’s continued partnership adds a layer of complexity. The brand has expressed interest in staying with RFK, but its willingness may hinge on the team’s ability to maintain a chartered presence. If Preece’s car remains unchartered, negotiations could become more delicate, especially as the team evaluates the long‑term viability of a three‑car operation.
The Charter Landscape in 2027
Only two charters will be available next season, and the market for new entries is tight. Legacy Motor Club is the only team confirmed to add a third charter, while other major players such as Kaulig Racing, Wood Brothers Racing and Front Row Motorsports have indicated they will not release any of their slots.
Rick Ware Racing’s current lease on a third charter expires after 2026, removing that option from RFK’s menu. Meanwhile, Hyak Motorsports has secured Ricky Stenhouse Jr. on a multi‑year deal, further crowding the limited charter pool.
The convergence of sponsor expectations, driver ambitions and the high price of charter acquisition creates a strategic crossroads for RFK Racing. How the team navigates this terrain will likely shape not only its own future but also the broader dynamics of driver movement in the sport.