Tony Stewart: From the NASCAR Track to Drag Racing, And Against His Wife!
NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart will continue his career in the world of drag racing in 2026, and he will compete directly against his wife! Stewart made the announcement this Thursday, revealing his plan to pilot a Top Fuel dragster for Elite Motorsports next season. This decision comes just a week after reporting that he would cede his position in the NHRA to his wife, Leah Pruett, who took a brief break after the birth of their son, Dominic. Pruett will resume her role at Tony Stewart Racing in 2026, which means Stewart will face her on the track, despite the marketing alliance between their teams.Freeman acquired Josh Hart’s Top Fuel operation earlier this month, thus securing 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,” commented Richard Freeman, team owner. “Tony is a great driver. We all know he can drive anything. He’s great for drag racing, not just as a team owner, but also behind 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 chance to compete alongside his wife, Leah.”
Richard Freeman
The 2026 season will mark Stewart’s third year 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 currently 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,” Stewart stated. “And although I wanted to keep 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
