Tony Stewart races against wife Leah Pruett in drag racing showdown
- Tony Stewart will compete in the NHRA Top Fuel drag racing series in 2026 after transitioning from NASCAR.
- Leah Pruett returns to racing after a year off, having given birth to their son, Dominic, and will drive under Tony Stewart Racing.
- The collaboration between Elite Motorsports and Tony Stewart Racing indicates a promising future for both drivers and their teams.
In a significant development within the motorsport community, Tony Stewart, a celebrated figure in NASCAR, announced his commitment to participate in the NHRA Top Fuel drag racing series during the 2026 season. This announcement comes after a period of transition for both Stewart and his wife, Leah Pruett, who recently took a break from racing to become a mother. As he transitions from NASCAR to drag racing, Stewart expressed his enthusiasm for racing against his wife while also serving as a team owner for their shared ambitions. Leah Pruett took over a year off after giving birth to their son, Dominic, and is making her return to the racing circuit in 2026 as Stewart graciously handed her the driving position at Tony Stewart Racing. Stewart's competitive spirit is heightened as he will now drive a Top Fuel dragster for Elite Motorsports, a decision made possible through securing a marketing alliance with her team. This collaboration aims to foster the growth of both drivers' reputations and teams while competing in tandem. The decision to allow Stewart to race alongside Pruett is a strategic one, as he is not only an accomplished driver but also plays a significant role as a team owner. Team owner Richard Freeman expressed optimism regarding Stewart's involvement, highlighting his versatility and vast experience across various motorsport disciplines. Stewart, who transitioned out of full-time NASCAR racing in 2016, has made impressive strides within the NHRA, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and achieving two Top Fuel victories in 2025. With the 2026 season approaching, both Stewart and Pruett have compelling narratives driving their return to the circuit. The collaboration between Elite Motorsports and Tony Stewart Racing signifies the evolving nature of competitive racing, emphasizing the importance of partnerships that drive progress. As they prepare to take the track, anticipation builds among fans and followers of motorsports, eager to witness this unique husband-and-wife rivalry unfolds in the upcoming season.