Leah Pruett Bio
Early Life and Background
Leah Christine Pruett was born on May 26, 1988, in Redlands, California, United States. Growing up in a family that appreciated motorsports, she developed a passion for racing at an early age. Pruett’s journey into racing began with her participation in various local racing events, which laid the foundation for her future career in professional drag racing.
Path to NHRA
Pruett began her professional racing career in 2013, debuting in the NHRA Top Fuel category with Dote Racing. Prior to this, she competed in Pro Mod and Nostalgia Funny Car, gaining valuable experience and honing her skills. Her early achievements included notable performances in various racing series, which helped her transition smoothly into the NHRA.
Leah Pruett Career
Early Career (2013–2015)
In her initial years, Pruett raced for teams such as Don Schumacher Racing, Bob Vandergriff Racing, and Dote Racing. She quickly made a name for herself in the NHRA ranks, showcasing her talent and determination. Her first significant victory came on February 28, 2016, at the Carquest Auto Parts NHRA Nationals in Chandler, Arizona, where she became the first woman to reach an all-female final in Top Fuel since 1982.
NHRA Breakthrough (2016–2020)
Pruett’s breakthrough year was 2016, where she finished seventh in points and secured her first national event win. The following years saw her continue to excel, finishing fifth in 2017 with four wins and maintaining strong performances in 2018 and 2019, where she finished fourth in points. Despite a challenging 2020 season, she remained a competitive force in the Top Fuel category.
In 2021, Pruett was announced as the Top Fuel driver for Tony Stewart Racing, marking a significant milestone in her career. She continued to demonstrate her skills on the track, contributing to the team’s success.
Tony Stewart Racing Era (2022–Present)
Pruett joined Tony Stewart Racing in 2022, driving a Top Fuel dragster under the guidance of crew chiefs Neal Strausbaugh and Micheal Domagala. Although she is not racing in the current year, her impact on the team has been significant. Pruett’s experience and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the team’s performance.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Pruett is known for her aggressive driving style and strategic approach to racing. Her ability to adapt to changing track conditions and her keen sense of timing have made her a formidable competitor in the NHRA.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout her career, Pruett has achieved 18 wins across various categories, including 12 in Top Fuel. Her victory at the Carquest Auto Parts NHRA Nationals remains a defining moment, highlighting her capabilities as a top-tier drag racer.
Leah Pruett Career Wins
Leah Pruett has accumulated a total of 18 wins in her racing career, showcasing her versatility and skill across different racing categories.
Current NHRA Series Highlights
In the NHRA series, Pruett has secured 12 wins in Top Fuel, with her first victory coming in 2016. Her most recent win was in 2021, further solidifying her status as a competitive driver in the series. As she prepares to step aside from racing in 2024, her contributions to the sport will be remembered.
Previous NHRA Series Achievements
Pruett’s achievements in previous NHRA series include three wins in Pro Mod and three in Factory Stock Showdown. Her consistent performance across different categories demonstrates her adaptability and talent as a driver.
Leah Pruett Family
Family Background and NHRA Lineage
Leah Pruett is married to former NASCAR driver Tony Stewart. The couple announced their engagement in March 2021 and married later that year in Los Cabos, Mexico. They are expecting their first child, a son named Dominic James Stewart, due in November 2024.
Personal Life
Pruett was previously married to Todd LeDuc and Gary Pritchett, with whom she has no children. Her personal life has been relatively private, focusing primarily on her racing career and family.
2025 Season Performance
As Leah Pruett prepares for the 2025 season, she is stepping back from active racing to focus on starting a family with Tony Stewart. This transition marks a significant change in her career, as she has been a prominent figure in the NHRA Top Fuel category. While she will not be competing, her legacy and contributions to the sport will continue to inspire future generations of racers. The dynamics within Tony Stewart Racing will evolve as they adapt to her absence, but Pruett’s influence will remain a vital part of the team’s identity.
