Tony Stewart claimed his second career NHRA Top Fuel victory at the Route 66 Raceway during the 2025 season, boosting him to the top of the points standings. Meanwhile, his young son, Dominic James Stewart, became an unexpected highlight of the event by wearing a humorous T-shirt that entertained both the team and fans alike.
Tony Stewart’s Big Victory and the Family Moment That Captivated Fans
Stewart’s win at the Route 66 NHRA Nationals, where he drove the Rinnai Dodge/SRT dragster to a 3.777-second run reaching speeds over 329 mph, marked his career-best performance and secured the championship trophy known as the Wally. However, the race’s lighthearted moment came courtesy of his son Dominic James, whose T-shirt read,
“I’m glad they didn’t name me Wally,”
provoking laughter among the Tony Stewart Racing crew and spectators during the awards ceremony.
This clever shirt resonated perfectly with NHRA enthusiasts, as race winners are honored with a Wally trophy. Though Dominic is far too young to speak, his playful outfit added levity to a high-stakes event. Stewart, widely recognized as a NASCAR legend, is quickly establishing himself as a competitive force in NHRA’s Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.
In the final round, Stewart outpaced competitor Justin Ashley to secure the win, which was his second victory in just three races this season. The triumph propelled Stewart into the lead of the Top Fuel points standings for the first time in his NHRA career, emphasizing his rapid development in this form of drag racing.
“Who doesn’t like winning?!” @TonyStewart gets his second Wally in three races and takes over the Top Fuel points lead! — NHRA (@NHRA)
Despite the thrill of victory, Stewart appeared especially fond of sharing the moment with his wife and son, cherishing the family connection above all else. The team captured this endearing scene on social media, highlighting that behind the rivalry and roar of engines, drivers remain everyday people with relatable joys.
Stewart’s Rapid Rise in NHRA Drag Racing
After transitioning from NASCAR, Stewart initially faced skepticism, but his strong performances in his sophomore NHRA season have silenced many doubters. Following back-to-back wins in Las Vegas and Chicago, he is quickly becoming a standout competitor in the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.
Alongside Stewart’s success, his teammate Matt Hagan has also delivered solid results in the Funny Car category, ensuring Tony Stewart Racing remains a top contender for championships this year. The momentum their combined efforts bring keeps the team engaged in intense title battles across the series.
Looking ahead, Stewart and his crew are preparing for the upcoming NHRA New England Nationals in Epping, New Hampshire, where they hope to maintain their winning streak. Fans are already eagerly anticipating whether Dominic James might don another playful outfit—perhaps a mini fire suit, but certainly without the name “Wally” emblazoned on it.
