Tony Stewart Will Compete Against Leah Pruett in NHRA 2026

Tony Stewart: NASCAR Legend to Venture into Drag Racing in 2026

NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart will continue his drag racing career in 2026. This news has generated great anticipation in the motorsport world, as the experienced driver will compete against his own wife in the competition. 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 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, which means Stewart will compete against her, despite the marketing alliance between their teams.

“First things first, we need to get funding for the program, but letting everyone know our intentions, that will help,” said team owner Richard Freeman.

Richard Freeman

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 has created the opportunity for Stewart to maintain a seat in Top Fuel and compete alongside his wife, Leah. Freeman acquired Josh Hart’s Top Fuel operation earlier this month, securing one of motorsports’ most successful drivers in the seat.

“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 commented.

Tony Stewart

Stewart explained 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 the recent alliance, he will be able to 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 currently holds second place in the overall standings.