A New Era of Determination: Ryan Preece and RFK Racing’s Quest for Victory
Within the high-octane world of NASCAR, where fractions of a second can mean the difference between victory and defeat, a subtle yet profound shift is underway at Ryan Preece’s RFK Racing team. This transformation hinges on a potent word: “win.” It’s not just a goal; it’s becoming a mantra, as the team seeks not just to participate but to dominate.
The Birth of a Winning Mindset
Since joining RFK Racing, Ryan Preece, along with his crew chief Derrick Finley, has been cultivating a spirit of determination within the team. This isn’t merely about competitiveness; it’s about nurturing an innate desire to win. As Preece embarks on his journey with the No. 60 group, the team is still finding its rhythm, having only six points-paying races under their belt.
Before the recent showdown at Homestead-Miami Speedway, Finley delivered a rallying cry to the team. His message was unequivocal: it was not enough to hope for victory—they had to seize it. I think Derrick has done a great job of managing the group, because this is a new group,
Preece remarked. The challenge was to instill a winning mindset in a diverse team, comprised of seasoned veterans and fresh faces alike.
Racing Towards Consistency
The results are beginning to reflect this newfound attitude. Preece secured a third-place finish in Las Vegas and a respectable ninth at Homestead. At Phoenix, he led the pack for 34 laps, becoming the first team to strategically leverage the option tire for track position—though the gamble didn’t pay off as hoped, it was a significant morale boost.
Even the season-opening Daytona 500, despite its dramatic setbacks, hinted at Preece’s potential. A spectacular flip down the backstretch overshadowed his raw speed, and a subsequent fuel pressure issue at the Circuit of the Americas disrupted what could have been a triumphant day. Yet, these challenges have only strengthened the team’s resolve.
The Journey Towards Victory
Currently sitting 17th in the championship standings, Preece is fostering a belief in momentum. He sees the first part of the season as a crucial period for building consistency and, eventually, achieving that coveted win. I have that mindset,
Preece stated. I’ve had that mindset my entire life because that’s all I’ve done. Outside of the Cup Series, you show up expecting to win.
This philosophy is not just personal; it’s a culture Finley is actively cultivating within the team.
The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection
RFK Racing embodies the relentless pursuit of perfection, a hallmark of racing excellence. This ethos resonates deeply with Preece, who reflects on his own career journey. There’s a piece inside of you that’s just going to keep pushing and pushing and pushing and be relentless,
he mused, likening the team’s drive to his own tenacious pursuit of racing glory since 2014.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the RFK Racing team is not just aiming to finish races—they’re racing to win. With a blend of youthful energy and seasoned expertise, bolstered by an unwavering belief in their potential, Preece and his team are poised to make a significant impact on the Cup Series. As they continue to refine their strategy and hone their skills, the racing world watches with anticipation. The message is clear: expect Ryan Preece and his team not just to compete, but to conquer.
