NASCAR Pit Crew Resilience: JP Kealey’s Recovery and Trackhouse Racing’s Next Steps

In the high-octane world of NASCAR, where split-second decisions define victory, a shocking incident at Pocono Raceway reminded fans of the dangers faced by pit crews. Shane van Gisbergen, the talented Trackhouse Racing driver, recently shared a gripping update on his injured pit crew member, JP Kealey, who displayed extraordinary grit after a terrifying accident. This story of resilience, teamwork, and recovery is one that captures the heart of motorsport and sheds light on the unsung heroes of the pit lane.

During the Great American Getaway 400 at Pocono Raceway, a routine pit stop under caution on lap 16 turned chaotic. AJ Allmendinger, driving for Kaulig Racing, misjudged his pit box entry, striking a tire changer’s wheel. The wheel launched into the path of van Gisbergen’s #88 Trackhouse Racing car, striking rear tire changer JP Kealey. The impact drove Kealey’s air gun into his ribs, pushing him against the car. Despite the excruciating pain, Kealey fell briefly, then rose to complete the pit stop, a testament to his determination and professionalism.

The injuries were severe: two broken ribs and a partially collapsed lung. Van Gisbergen, speaking at EchoPark Speedway, confirmed Kealey is now recovering at home but faces weeks of rest. Having experienced rib injuries himself, van Gisbergen expressed empathy, stressing the importance of Kealey taking time to heal fully. This glimpse into the physical toll of pit crew duties reveals the bravery required to perform under pressure in NASCAR’s unforgiving environment.

Trackhouse Racing has swiftly adapted to Kealey’s absence. Noel “Bud” Merrill Jr., a capable substitute who previously stepped in during a penalty situation, has taken over as rear tire changer for the #88 car. Van Gisbergen praised Merrill’s readiness, signaling the team’s confidence in maintaining performance as they navigate the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series. This seamless transition underscores the depth and preparedness within Trackhouse Racing, a team known for its resilience and adaptability.

Kealey’s background adds another layer to this compelling story. A former professional lacrosse player, Kealey was a top draft pick in the National Lacrosse League in 2017. His athletic prowess translated seamlessly into NASCAR, where he previously served as AJ Allmendinger’s rear tire changer at Kaulig Racing before joining Trackhouse Racing full-time this season. His journey from lacrosse to the pit lane highlights the diverse skill sets that converge in motorsport, where precision and endurance are paramount.

The Pocono incident impacted van Gisbergen’s race, resulting in a 31st-place finish—a stark contrast to his dominant victory in Mexico City earlier this season. Despite the setback, van Gisbergen remains playoff-bound alongside teammate Ross Chastain. With the Quaker State 400 at EchoPark Speedway on the horizon, featuring the inaugural In-Season Challenge tournament with a $1 million prize, the team is focused on rebounding. Unfortunately, van Gisbergen’s recent finishes excluded him from the tournament, but his playoff spot secures his place in the championship chase.

Looking ahead, van Gisbergen shared a candid perspective on his season. With a playoff berth secured, he feels less pressure on road courses, allowing him to experiment with strategies. However, he acknowledged the challenge of oval tracks, where he continues to hone his skills. The 2025 schedule offers four more road course races, starting with the Chicago street race in July, providing opportunities for van Gisbergen to leverage his strengths. His honesty about the learning curve on ovals resonates with fans, showcasing his determination to grow as a versatile driver.

This incident at Pocono Raceway serves as a powerful reminder of the risks pit crew members face and the resilience that defines NASCAR. JP Kealey’s ability to push through pain to complete his job exemplifies the spirit of the sport. As Trackhouse Racing rallies around their injured teammate and prepares for the challenges ahead, fans are left inspired by the teamwork and perseverance that fuel this high-speed world. With van Gisbergen and his crew forging ahead, the 2025 season promises more thrilling moments and stories of triumph.