Tony Stewart: NASCAR Legend to Compete in Drag Racing Against His Wife in 2026
NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart will continue his drag racing career in 2026, and this time, he will compete directly against his wife. Stewart announced on Thursday that he will pilot a Top Fuel dragster for Elite Motorsports next season. This decision comes a week after revealing his plans to give up his seat in the NHRA to his wife, Leah Pruett, who took a break of just over a year after the birth of their son, Dominic. Pruett will resume her role at Tony Stewart Racing in 2026, and Stewart will now compete against her, even though their teams maintain a marketing alliance.Freeman added that Stewart is a great driver and that his presence is beneficial for drag racing, both as a team owner and behind the wheel. The marketing alliance with Tony Stewart Racing will allow Stewart to keep a seat in Top Fuel and compete alongside his wife, Leah. Freeman acquired Josh Hart’s Top Fuel operation earlier this month, thus securing one of the most successful drivers in motorsports.First things first, we need to fund the program, but informing everyone of our intentions will help.
Richard Freeman, team owner
The 2026 season will mark Stewart’s third in Top Fuel. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 1997 IndyCar champion earned the NHRA Rookie of the Year award in 2024 and achieved two Top Fuel victories this year. With five races remaining in the NHRA season, Stewart is in second place in points.From the beginning, I said I was just keeping Leah’s seat warm and that it would be hers as soon as she was ready to return. Although I wanted to continue driving, TSR isn’t in a position to add a second Top Fuel car. But with Richard buying Josh Hart’s team and our recent alliance, I can continue working as an owner and driver to help both organizations grow.
Tony Stewart
