Tony Stewart continued his impressive ascent in the NHRA Top Fuel division at the 25th annual Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals near Chicago, securing his second career Top Fuel victory and claiming the season points lead. Stewart’s remarkable performance, bolstered by the vital support of his wife, Leah Pruett, solidified his status at the top of the standings in the 2025 NHRA season.
Strong Qualifying Performance Sets the Stage for Victory
Despite challenging, windy conditions on Friday, Stewart topped the qualifying rounds, demonstrating early speed and control. When cooler air arrived on Saturday, his team capitalized on it, producing a standout 3.67-second run — the fastest of Stewart’s drag racing career to date. This crucial performance energized the team and positioned Stewart strongly for the elimination rounds.
Key Role of Leah Pruett and Team Strategy
Stewart’s success was not a solo effort. His wife, Leah Pruett, an experienced drag racer with 18 national event wins, has been instrumental in guiding him. Although Leah stepped back from full-time racing in 2024 to prioritize family, she remains deeply involved, offering strategic advice that proved essential during this crucial weekend. Before the final round against Justin Ashley, Stewart, Pruett, and teammate Matt Hagan devised the plan that helped him stay focused and confident.
Fierce Competition on the Road to Victory
Along his path to the winner’s circle, Stewart overcame formidable opponents. He eliminated Terry Totten, Shawn Reed, and Steve Torrence to reach the final, where he faced Justin Ashley, known for his rapid reaction times. Despite Ashley’s quick .042 start, Stewart’s strong .048 reaction time allowed him to edge ahead, finishing with a 3.777-second run at 329.10 mph to clinch the win.
Reflecting on the weekend, Stewart noted,
“We topped Q1 on a tricky track Friday, and when the cool air rolled in Saturday, we laid down a 3.67 — a run that got all of us fired up.”
Team Progress and NHRA Season Leadership
Now at the top of the points standings for the first time in his NHRA career, Stewart conveyed a new confidence in his team’s capabilities.
“You’ve got to believe we’re real now at this point,”
he said, acknowledging the steady progress made since earlier events like Vegas. He highlighted the consistency of his car and the importance of believing in their potential to contend for the championship.
Stewart also expressed his appreciation for the community within the NHRA, remarking on the respect shared among competitors despite the intensity of the sport. He said,
“We’re driving 300-mph cars, and it’s okay for us to respect and like each other and have to compete against each other at this level. I like that part of it.”
Championship Outlook as the Season Heats Up
With Stewart currently leading the standings, Shawn Langdon remains a close challenger, trailing by only three points as the NHRA season progresses. Stewart’s momentum, combined with Leah Pruett’s ongoing support and the strength of his team, positions him as a serious contender moving forward.
This landmark victory and points lead mark a significant milestone in Stewart’s NHRA journey, suggesting a competitive and thrilling season ahead for fans and racers alike.
