Brad Keselowski led for 27 laps during Sunday’s race at Pocono and seemed on track for his first win of the season. However, on lap 57, he made a costly pit road mistake that ultimately cost him the victory, despite a strong late-race comeback.

As Keselowski approached pit road, he failed to notice the scoring light had changed from green to yellow, triggered by Shane van Gisbergen’s spin. This error forced him into an unplanned pit stop at an unfavorable time.

I don’t know what that last yellow was for, but I wanted to strangle whoever it was,

Keselowski said during the Amazon Prime post-race show.

Upon learning the caution was caused by van Gisbergen’s spin, Keselowski lightened the mood, joking,

He’s a little bigger than me. It was just one of those days.

Penalty Sends Keselowski to the Back, but He Shows Determination

During the pit stop, Keselowski’s No. 6 Ford Mustang received new tires and fuel. However, his failure to enter pit road under green conditions sent him to the back of the field for the restart. Starting 30th, the 2012 NASCAR Cup champion displayed skill and grit, advancing from 24th to finish ninth by the end of the race.

While every other driver remained on track during the caution caused by van Gisbergen’s spin, Keselowski took full responsibility for his pit decision.

This is my fault, to be clear with this,

he admitted.

When we were going down the short chute, the team said to pit this time and I had no reason to challenge them.

Ultimately, I hold the steering wheel and I’m the one that’s got to check (the pit lane entry lights) and I didn’t check with the crew chief and the spotter and it’s my fault.

The penalty cost Keselowski a strong finish, as he likely could have secured a top-five position or even battled for the win against race winner Chase Briscoe.

If I would have pitted (a lap earlier and) the yellow came out while we were on pit road, we probably would have cycled inside the top 10 with new tires and might have had a shot to win the race,

Keselowski reflected.

So I feel bad about not taking advantage of that.

Keselowski Reflects on Near Miss and Upcoming Opportunities

Keselowski, a veteran driver with 36 career Cup wins, has faced challenges recently, with only one victory in 151 starts since late 2021. Despite this, he remains hopeful as the season progresses.

He expressed confidence about upcoming races at familiar tracks such as Atlanta, where he has twice won, as well as Iowa and Indianapolis, where he has had some success.

Keselowski and his team plan a two-day testing session at Gateway this Tuesday and Wednesday to collect data that could improve their performance at Iowa.

We just need that much to win,

Keselowski said, holding his fingers just inches apart.

If we can find just that little bit more, I think it will take us to victory lane.