Tony Stewart, well-known for his extraordinary success in multiple forms of motorsport, offered an entertaining explanation for why he never competed in Formula One despite having opportunities. Stewart’s impressive accomplishments span NASCAR Cup Series championships, an IndyCar title, the USAC Triple Crown, and even a victory in NHRA drag racing. Yet, when it came to F1, the renowned driver shared that his love for food and body weight kept him from making the jump, despite being offered a potential ride with the Haas F1 team.
The Demands of Formula One and Tony Stewart’s Unique Approach
Racing at the highest levels, including Formula One, requires intense physical conditioning and strict weight control. Drivers typically maintain rigorous fitness routines and precise diets to reduce every ounce possible, as even a small difference in weight affects car performance and lap times. Stewart’s approach was notably different. Highlighting his relaxed attitude toward diet, fellow driver Brad Keselowski recalled seeing Stewart eat a cheeseburger just before a race, diverging from the usual strict nutrition followed by most competitors.
Stewart himself candidly admitted,
“I weigh too much to race with those skinny guys. I’m not going on a diet.”
This mindset meant that despite the challenge not being about securing a seat—since Stewart could probably have arranged a position with Gene Haas’s team—the physical demands of F1 held him back.
Experience Behind the Wheel of a Formula One Car
Although Stewart never competed in Formula One races, he did have the chance to drive an F1 car during a memorable seat swap with Lewis Hamilton. Stewart recounted the event, sharing,
“I’ve driven an F1 car. I’ve driven Lewis Hamilton’s car, we did a seat swap. He drove the Cup car for four laps, I drove the Formula 1 car for four laps.”
This unique experience showcased the mutual respect between two champions from different racing worlds.
Tony Stewart’s Legacy and the Impact of His Decision
Had Stewart pursued Formula One, he could have joined the elite list of drivers, such as Mario Andretti, who have won in both NASCAR and F1. His diverse abilities behind the wheel suggest he would have been competitive across disciplines. However, Stewart’s honesty and refusal to conform to the strict weight requirements reveal more about his character than a missed professional opportunity.
Fans and the racing community admire him not only for his skill but also for his straightforwardness. While the world missed seeing Stewart compete in Formula One, his presence continues to influence motorsport across its many disciplines, proving that success comes in many forms beyond the limits of body weight and physical conditioning.
