Tony Stewart has been selected as the grand marshal for the upcoming NASCAR Chili Bowl, highlighting his continuing influence in the sport. The choice brings added excitement to the event at the Tulsa Expo Center next week, as Stewart’s strong legacy and reputation make this a celebrated moment for fans and competitors alike. The announcement underscores Stewart’s enduring role in connecting dirt track racing with NASCAR, making the Tony Stewart grand marshal NASCAR appointment particularly meaningful for the community.
Legacy Continues as Stewart Leads the Chili Bowl
NASCAR’s appointment of Tony Stewart as grand marshal for the Chili Bowl Nationals is widely seen as a fitting tribute to a motorsports icon whose presence has been felt at the Tulsa Expo Center for decades. Known to many as “Smoke,” Stewart has left a significant mark on the Chili Bowl, returning next week to take on a ceremonial yet influential role during the championship Saturday festivities. This recognition comes at a pivotal time, following Stewart’s recent step back from active competition, yet his involvement in racing remains as relevant as ever.
The co-owner of the Chili Bowl, Emmett Hahn, captured the industry’s sentiment by saying,
“Not only is Tony a winner here, but he was also part of what really made the Chili Bowl take off in the early 2000s … rebuild the connection between dirt track and NASCAR fans. He’s an ambassador to our sport at more levels than anyone; and they don’t make them like Tony anymore, so being able to honor him as our Grand Marshal means a lot to me, and this event.”
— Emmett Hahn, Co-owner of the Chili Bowl.
Stewart’s racing record at the Chili Bowl reinforces his place in the sport’s history. He has secured the Golden Driller trophy twice, in 2002 and 2007, and made the prestigious A-Main lineup 12 out of 14 attempts. His career at Tulsa also includes three podium finishes, four top-five runs, and seven appearances in the top ten—a testament to his consistent excellence on the dirt.
Despite stepping aside as a driver—most recently making way for his wife, Leah Pruett, to focus on her drag racing career with Tony Stewart Racing—Stewart’s strategic influence and passion for dirt racing endure. His ongoing connection with NASCAR and sprint car racing fuels excitement both at the Chili Bowl and beyond.
Stewart’s Motorsport Achievements Set the Bar High
Tony Stewart’s status as a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion is only part of his story. His sprint car roots run deep, contributing to 14 United States Auto Club (USAC) owner titles and nine champion seasons in the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series. Additionally, he has steered teams to four titles in the All-Star Circuit of Champions TQ Midgets Series. Such accomplishments affirm his ongoing relevance and suitability to serve as grand marshal for the Chili Bowl—it is more than a ceremonial role; it is a reflection of decades of impact.
Although Stewart’s last race start at the Chili Bowl came in 2013, he has continued to contribute as part of the track preparation crew, collaborating with figures like Brad Chandler, Steve Hahn, Matt Ward, and Martin Edwards. His hands-on work behind the scenes reinforces his deep-rooted connection to the racing community and the ongoing evolution of the event.
Spotlight on the 2026 Tony Stewart Racing Team
As Tony Stewart steps into the grand marshal spotlight, his namesake racing organization is surging forward in 2026. Tony Stewart Racing is preparing for an ambitious season, drawing on a culture built by Stewart himself, one that blends competitive spirit with a winning attitude.
A major focus is the full-time return of Leah Pruett to NHRA Top Fuel racing. As Stewart’s wife and a seasoned drag racer with 12 Top Fuel victories, Pruett adds star power and championship aspirations to the team. Her anticipated comeback is more than just a headline—it marks the continuation of Stewart’s high standards across all branches of his organization.
Simultaneously, the growing role of Rico Abreu brings even more energy to the team’s sprint car division. As the reigning 2025 High Limit Racing champion, Abreu boosts Tony Stewart Racing’s competitive profile in events beyond the drag strip. His partnership with Stewart represents a fusion of talent, aggression, and experience that promises to keep the team at the forefront of motorsports conversations throughout the year.
The combination of Pruett’s drag racing expertise and Abreu’s sprint car mastery creates a dynamic partnership that showcases the full range of Tony Stewart’s influence from the fastest drag strips to the most unpredictable dirt tracks. With Stewart continuing to steer the operation as a visible and active leader, 2026 is being heralded as a defining season for both his career and the future of Tony Stewart Racing.
The Significance of Stewart’s Role for Fans and Racing
Tony Stewart’s appointment as grand marshal for the Chili Bowl not only honors his personal achievements but also highlights the enduring bond between NASCAR and grassroots racing. His presence is expected to draw increased attention from fans eager to see a legend celebrated in a key motorsports event. Stewart’s reputation as both a champion driver and team owner ensures continued interest in his activities on and off the track, connecting seasoned fans with new audiences and inspiring the broader motorsports community. With anticipation building for the Chili Bowl’s kickoff, Stewart stands poised to deliver another memorable chapter in his already storied career.
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