DARLINGTON, S.C. — There were so many things that were special about Brad Keselowski’s first NASCAR victory in three years, it was difficult for the 40-year-old driver to say what topped the list Sunday evening.
It was the 36th win of his Cup Series career and his second at Darlington Raceway, which he reveres as an ultimate test. It came in front of his family, with daughters Scarlett, who will turn 9 this month, and 4-year-old Autumn joining him on the podium at the track known for being “too tough to tame.” And it was his first victory as a driver since leaving Team Penske to become co-owner at Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing in 2022.
“There’s a lot of things to be excited about — don’t know which one means the most,” Keselowski said with a smile.
Keselowski, who started second on Sunday, moved to the front when Chris Buescher and pole-sitter Tyler Reddick collided while battling for first place with nine laps left. He then held on to win the Goodyear 400, ending a drought that began after his victory at Alabama’s Talladega Superspeedway on April 25, 2021.
“Hell of an effort by everyone,” Keselowski said after crossing the finish line.