Tony Stewart has done just about everything in motorsports, but he’s not done chasing speed. The NASCAR Hall of Famer is set to jump back into the driver’s seat for the 2026 NHRA season, and this time, he’ll be racing for Elite Motorsports.
But here’s the twist that’s got everyone talking: he’ll be going head-to-head with his own wife, Leah Pruett, who’s returning to Tony Stewart Racing after stepping away to focus on motherhood. The couple will face off as rivals on the NHRA Top Fuel circuit, and fans are already buzzing about it.
A Power Couple Becomes Track Rivals
For Stewart, this new chapter comes after two strong seasons in Top Fuel drag racing. He’s currently second in NHRA points, showing that he’s not just out there for fun; he’s in it to win it.
Still, he knows things will get interesting with his wife back on the line next to him. While the two teams share a marketing alliance, Stewart says that won’t dull their competitive fire. Once the lights flash green, it’s all about who crosses the line first.
Backed by Elite Motorsports
Stewart will be racing under team owner Richard Freeman, who recently bought out Josh Hart’s former team to expand Elite Motorsports into Top Fuel. Freeman is excited to bring Stewart on board, and he’s not hiding it.
“First things first, though, we need to get the program funded, but letting everyone know our intentions will help,” Freeman said. “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 behind the wheel.”
“We’re excited that through our marketing alliance with Tony Stewart Racing, we’re creating an opportunity for Tony to keep a Top Fuel seat and a chance to race alongside his wife, Leah.”
Freeman’s confidence shows just how much faith the team has in Stewart’s talent. It’s not every day you see a NASCAR legend step into drag racing and hold his own, but Stewart’s already proven he belongs.
Tony Stewart’s Promise to Leah
From the start, Stewart has said his time in the Top Fuel seat was always meant to be temporary, at least until Pruett was ready to return. Now that she is, he’s sticking to his word.
“I said from the very beginning that I was just keeping Leah’s seat warm and that it was hers as soon as she was ready to come back,” Stewart said. “
“And as much as I wanted to continue driving, TSR is not in a position to add a second Top Fuel car. But with Richard buying Josh Hart’s team and our recent alliance, I can still work as an owner and a driver to help both our organisations grow.”
With Pruett back and Stewart staying in the mix, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting NHRA seasons in years. They may be married off the track, but once those engines fire up, they’ll be fierce competitors.
Fans better buckle up, this husband-vs-wife showdown is going to be one wild ride.
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