Tony Stewart to Face His Wife on the Racetrack in 2026
NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart will continue his career in the world of drag racing in 2026, with an unexpected twist: he will compete 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 announcing his plans to step down from his NHRA position to his wife, Leah Pruett. Pruett, after taking some time off after the birth of his son, Dominic, will resume his position at Tony Stewart Racing in 2026. This means that Stewart and Pruett will face each other on the track, despite the marketing alliance between their teams.Freeman, the team owner, added that Stewart is a great driver, capable of driving anything, and that his presence is beneficial for drag racing. The marketing alliance between both teams has created the opportunity for Stewart to maintain a seat in Top Fuel and compete alongside his wife. Freeman acquired Josh Hart’s Top Fuel operation earlier this month, and now has one of the most successful drivers in motorsports at the wheel.First things first, we need to fund the program, but making our intentions known will help.
Richard Freeman, team owner
Stewart explained that, although he wished to continue competing, Tony Stewart Racing is not in a position to add a second Top Fuel car. However, thanks to the recent alliance with Richard Freeman, he will be able to continue as owner and driver, contributing to 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 the standings.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
