Tony Stewart to Compete Against Wife Leah Pruett in Top Fuel Drag Racing Series in 2026
NASCAR icon Tony Stewart has revealed his intention to compete for Elite Motorsports in the Top Fuel drag racing series in 2026, where he will face off against his wife, Leah Pruett. Stewart's decision to race against Pruett comes after previously stating he would not do so. The announcement follows Pruett's return to racing after taking time off to have their son Dominic.
Stewart, who retired from full-time NASCAR racing in 2016, has had success in the Top Fuel series, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and securing two victories in 2025. He currently holds the second spot in the NHRA standings behind Doug Kalitta. Pruett, a seasoned Top Fuel driver with 18 career NHRA wins, finished third in the 2023 standings before her hiatus.
The couple, who tied the knot in 2021, have a history of racing together, with Pruett driving for Tony Stewart Racing since 2013. Stewart expressed his support for Pruett's return to racing, stating that her seat at Tony Stewart Racing was always hers to reclaim. While Stewart won't be driving for TSR due to budget constraints, Elite Motorsports' acquisition of Josh Hart's team has opened up an opportunity for Stewart to continue racing alongside his wife.
Elite Motorsports, in collaboration with Tony Stewart Racing, is working to secure funding for Stewart's third Top Fuel campaign. The team's owner, Richard Freeman, praised Stewart's driving skills and emphasized the importance of expanding the sport by adding another Top Fuel entry. The team is also preparing drivers Erica Enders and Aaron Stanfield to test and license the dragster.
The upcoming NHRA 4-Wide Carolina Nationals in Concord, N.C., will mark the start of the 2026 season, with the Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla., following shortly after. Stewart's return to the drag racing scene promises an exciting season ahead for fans and competitors alike.