One of the most decorated racers in the history of motorsports, Tony Stewart, has always been a figure who pushes boundaries. Known for his extraordinary career in NASCAR and beyond, Stewart has built a legacy that few can rival. Despite his last Cup Series race win coming in 2016, he has remained deeply involved in the racing world, continuing his journey as the owner of the Stewart-Haas Racing team. Now, the four-time Cup Series champion is embarking on a new chapter in his storied career, transitioning to the world of professional drag racing.
Tony Stewart’s latest venture has seen him behind the wheel of his wife Leah Pruett’s 11,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragster. Pruett, a standout in the drag racing scene, stepped away from the series mid-season as the couple is expecting their first child in November. What began as a temporary substitution for his wife has evolved into a new challenge that Stewart is eager to conquer. In a recent interview with Query & Company, Stewart revealed his burgeoning passion for drag racing and his plans for the future.
Tony Stewart: The Rookie Dragster
Tony Stewart’s racing accolades are numerous and diverse. He has won the NASCAR Cup Series four times—twice as a driver, once as an owner/driver, and once solely as an owner. His versatility extends beyond NASCAR; in 1997, he claimed the IndyCar championship, and before that, in 1995, he achieved a historic feat by winning the Sprint, Midget, and Silver Crown Championships. Stewart is the only driver in history to have secured titles in all three categories, making him a true jack-of-all-trades in motorsports. Given his extensive resume, one might wonder what challenges remained for Stewart. Enter the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association), a new frontier for the racing legend.
Stewart’s entry into drag racing came about somewhat serendipitously, thanks to his wife’s pregnancy. Initially stepping in to fill Leah Pruett’s seat, Stewart quickly found himself captivated by the sport. In April, he achieved his first NHRA Top Fuel elimination round wins at the Arizona Nationals, signaling a promising start to his drag racing career. Despite his status as a multiple-time champion, Stewart is now a rookie in this new discipline, eager to learn and excel.
Reflecting on his unexpected journey into drag racing, Stewart shared that it wasn’t part of his grand plan. However, the opportunity to take on a new challenge was too enticing to pass up. He said, “I have always liked that. You look back at my history, I have driven so many different types of cars and I did it because I like the challenge. I like learning something new. Honestly, this wasn’t part of the master plan tho.” To hone his skills, Stewart attended a drag racing school in Florida, where he developed a deep appreciation and respect for the sport.
Stewart’s perspective on drag racing changed significantly as he immersed himself in the discipline. He remarked, “When you watch it on TV, it looks like they just fire the car up, the crew chief adjusts the knob on the injector, you do a burnout, back up, twist the knob some more, line up, and hit the gas. There is so much more to it. The more I learned, the more I drove, the more I grew to like it.” Stewart has also praised the unique atmosphere of drag racing, calling it the “coolest” in all of motorsports—a significant endorsement from someone with his breadth of experience.
Tony Stewart on NHRA’s Fan Experience
Stewart has also highlighted the exceptional fan experience in NHRA events. He noted that without fans, any sport would lose its value and excitement. Drag racing, in particular, offers something unique: unparalleled access for fans. Stewart explained, “The ticket they buy gets them everywhere but right behind the car on the starting line. They can watch their favorite drivers run, and then get up and go into the pits to see the crews at work. It’s amazing.”
This level of access allows fans to witness the behind-the-scenes action up close. Stewart expressed his amazement at how fans can observe the intricate workings of the pit area, saying, “They can literally watch them go down the track, get out of their seats, walk down to the pit area, and watch the crews disassemble and reassemble motors. They can be within 15-20 feet of the car while they are doing that.”
Stewart emphasized how this unique aspect of drag racing enhances the overall experience for fans, allowing them to feel like an integral part of the event. He noted that such accessibility is rarely found in other motorsports, where fans are typically kept at a distance from the inner workings of the teams and cars.
Tony Stewart’s Journey in Drag Racing
As Stewart embarks on his drag racing journey, he brings a wealth of experience and a competitive spirit that has defined his illustrious career. His ability to adapt and excel in various forms of motorsport is a testament to his skill and determination. Despite being a newcomer to drag racing, Stewart’s dedication to mastering this new challenge is evident.
Reflecting on his transition, Stewart shared that he relishes the learning process and the thrill of competing in a new arena. He said, “There is a bit of an art to using the nose to get underneath somebody and racing them down in the next corner, but each lap it seems the hits get harder and harder, and it goes from that art of moving a guy to basically just a punt.” This analogy underscores the nuanced skills required in drag racing, which Stewart is eager to perfect.
Stewart’s enthusiasm for drag racing is matched by his respect for the sport’s complexities and the camaraderie within the drag racing community. He has praised the supportive atmosphere and the unique challenges that come with piloting a Top Fuel dragster. As he continues to compete, Stewart aims to build on his early successes and establish himself as a formidable presence in the NHRA.
Looking Ahead
At 53, Tony Stewart shows no signs of slowing down. His venture into drag racing adds another impressive chapter to his already remarkable career. Fans and fellow racers alike are watching with interest as Stewart takes on this new challenge with the same determination and passion that have defined his career in motorsports.
Stewart’s foray into the NHRA is more than just a temporary diversion; it represents his relentless pursuit of excellence and his willingness to embrace new challenges. As he continues to compete and grow in the drag racing world, there is little doubt that Stewart will bring the same level of success and excitement that he has delivered throughout his career.
In summary, Tony Stewart’s transition from NASCAR legend to rookie drag racer is a testament to his versatility and competitive spirit. His journey into drag racing, spurred by his wife’s pregnancy, has already yielded impressive results and provided fans with an up-close look at his determination to conquer yet another motorsport. As he navigates this new challenge, Stewart’s story continues to inspire and captivate, proving that even the most accomplished athletes can find new frontiers to explore and master.
