League: NASCAR Sport: Motorsports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Brad Keselowski criticizes NASCAR's Rookie of the Year eligibility rules

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 11:10 PM

Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Brad Keselowski criticizes NASCAR's Rookie of the Year eligibility rules

Summary

NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski has voiced his discontent with the Rookie of the Year system, following Corey Heim's disqualification from the award despite his two victories in the 2026 season. Heim has secured wins at San Diego and Indianapolis but is ineligible due to exceeding the new 12-start limit in the Cup Series. Keselowski labeled the system as 'broken' and expressed concerns over its fairness, citing his own experience from 2009. Heim also criticized the rule, suggesting it diminishes the award's value by excluding top-performing rookies. The controversy has prompted NASCAR to reconsider its requirements for rookie eligibility.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Corey Heim has won twice in 2026 but cannot compete for Rookie of the Year.
•Keselowski believes NASCAR's system is unfair and in need of change.
•Heim criticized the rules, arguing it risks devaluing the award.
•NASCAR implemented the 12-start limit earlier this month, affecting rookie eligibility.
•Both Keselowski and Heim have highlighted issues with the current setup's fairness.

Latest Updates

11:10 PMYahoo Sports — ‘I thought it was a farce’: Brad Keselowski blasts NASCAR system over Corey Heim penalty

What they're saying

"
Brad Keselowski has criticised NASCAR’s Rookie of the Year system after Corey Heim was ruled ineligible for the award despite winning twice during the 2026 season. Heim, who won the Truck Series championship last year, has enjoyed another impressive campaign with victories in San Diego and at Indianapolis Speedway.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Red Bull Racing NASCAR Motorsports