Tony Stewart, one of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR history, is known for his fierce competitiveness, numerous race wins, and unwavering dedication to motorsports. But in a recent heartfelt appearance on Kenny Wallace’s podcast Kenny Conversation, Stewart peeled back the curtain on his personal struggles and surprising regrets from his legendary racing career.
As the guest for the podcast’s 100th episode, Stewart didn’t hold back. While fans remember him for his three NASCAR Cup Series championships and unforgettable performances on the track, Stewart revealed that success often came at a personal cost. In a moment of candid reflection, he shared two major regrets that continue to weigh on him.
The first and most emotionally charged topic was the tragic 2015 sprint car accident involving 20-year-old driver Kevin Ward Jr. During a race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park in New York, Ward exited his vehicle on track and was fatally struck by Stewart’s car. Although Stewart was cleared of any legal wrongdoing, the incident left a lasting impact on him emotionally and mentally.
“I still get blamed for it, all the time, daily by people that have no clue what the hell they’re talking about,” Stewart said. His voice carried the weight of years of grief and frustration. It’s clear that the public scrutiny and personal guilt from that night have never fully left him. Stewart admitted that, given the chance, he would never have raced that night at all—a chilling regret for a man who has spent his life behind the wheel.
The second regret Stewart shared was more personal, but no less revealing. He acknowledged that his intense focus on winning and performance often made him difficult to be around. “I was so tense with racing, I was so on edge all the time… all I cared about was winning races and what we had to do. I was not a good person to people,” he confessed.
This rare introspection shows a different side of Tony Stewart—one that fans rarely see. It’s a reminder that even the most successful athletes can carry emotional burdens and wish they’d handled things differently. His willingness to open up speaks volumes about his growth, and his desire to use his experience to guide others.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, Stewart’s appearance on Kenny Conversation is a must-watch. It’s not just about racing—it’s about humanity, humility, and the lessons that even champions continue to learn.
