Tony Stewart joins Elite Motorsports in 2026 and will compete against his wife
NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart will continue his drag racing career in 2026, and he will do so by competing directly against his wife. Stewart announced on Thursday that he will drive a Top Fuel dragster for Elite Motorsports next season. This decision comes a week after he revealed 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 giving birth to 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, recognized for his ability to drive any vehicle. “He’s fantastic for drag racing, not only as a team owner, but also at the wheel. We are excited that, through our marketing alliance with Tony Stewart Racing, we are creating an opportunity for Tony to maintain a seat in Top Fuel and have the opportunity to compete alongside his wife, Leah.” Freeman acquired Josh Hart’s Top Fuel operation earlier this month, thus securing one of the most prominent drivers in motorsports.First things first, we need to fund the program, but making our intentions known will help.
Richard Freeman, team owner
Stewart added that, although he wished to continue driving, TSR is not in a position to add a second Top Fuel car. However, thanks to Richard’s purchase of Josh Hart’s team and our recent alliance, he can continue working as an owner and driver to help the growth of both organizations. 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 warming Leah’s seat and that it would be hers as soon as she was ready to return.
Tony Stewart
