Tony Stewart: NASCAR Legend Tackles a New Challenge in Drag Racing
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 confirmed 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 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 position at Tony Stewart Racing in 2026, and Stewart will now compete against her, despite the marketing alliance between their teams.Freeman added that Stewart is an exceptional driver and a great asset to drag racing, both as a team owner and behind the wheel. The marketing alliance with Tony Stewart Racing creates an opportunity for Stewart to maintain a seat in Top Fuel and compete with his wife. Freeman acquired Josh Hart’s Top Fuel operation earlier this month, 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
The 2026 season will mark Stewart’s third in Top Fuel. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 1997 IndyCar champion was recognized as the NHRA Rookie of the Year 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. And although I wanted to keep driving, TSR is not in a position to add a second Top Fuel car. But with Richard’s purchase of Josh Hart’s team and our recent alliance, I can continue working as an owner and driver to help both organizations grow.
Tony Stewart
