Tony Stewart is returning to the Indianapolis 500, not as a driver but as a broadcaster for FOX Sports’ race-day coverage of The Greatest Spectacle in Racing. The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and 1997 IndyCar Series champion, who previously competed in five Indy 500 races, will share insights during the broadcast, bringing his deep experience to viewers.
The broadcast team will also include former driver Danica Patrick and veteran FOX announcer Chris Myers, forming a trio to bolster the pre-race coverage. This year, FOX has expanded its pre-race programming by an additional hour compared to the previous Indy 500s aired on NBC, aiming to offer fans more detailed analysis and stories.
Stewart’s Racing Background and Broadcast Role
Hailing from Columbus, Indiana, Tony Stewart has a notable history at the Indianapolis 500 with a best finish of fifth place in 1997 after leading 64 laps. His last appearance as a driver in the event was in 2001, where he started seventh and finished sixth. Other Indy 500 runs include a strong climb from 24th to ninth in 1999 and two races ending with DNFs: a crash in 1998 after completing 22 laps, and a mechanical failure in 1996 despite starting second and completing 82 laps.
Stewart’s broadcasting career includes work covering NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series races for FOX, where he complements the main commentary team led by Will Buxton, James Hinchcliffe, and Townsend Bell. His on-air role promises informed commentary based on his direct racing experience at Indianapolis.
Unlikely Return as a Competitor at the Indy 500
Though speculations about Stewart making a driver comeback at the Indy 500 have arisen, he downplays that prospect. In a recent video conference, Stewart openly acknowledged the challenges of competing in today’s IndyCar field after more than two decades away from the series.
“The last time I was in an IndyCar was 2001, so 20 plus years now,”
Stewart explained.
“To go there and even think that I’m going to be competitive is, in my opinion, very unrealistic. Do I feel like I could make the race and have a solid showing? I do feel like I could do that, but I don’t feel like I have what it takes.”
He stressed the highly skilled nature of current drivers and the precise feedback they provide to their teams as a key factor for success. Stewart said,
“These guys are so good in these cars and have such a good feel and read on what these cars are and what the car needs. I don’t feel like I would have that input to give to the team to help … to have a winning car.”
I don’t think I’d be capable because of seat time,” he added. “Just don’t think it’s in my cards.
—Tony Stewart, Former NASCAR and IndyCar Driver
Recent Racing Success in NHRA and FOX Sports Coverage Details
Although Stewart retired from NASCAR competition in 2016, he has remained active in motorsports, notably winning his first NHRA Top Fuel event in 2025 at the Las Vegas Four-Wide Nationals and securing another victory at the Route 66 Nationals in Joliet, Illinois. Currently, he leads the NHRA Top Fuel standings by a slim three-point margin over Shawn Langdon after six of twenty events.
In addition to Stewart’s commentary, FOX Sports’ Indy 500 coverage will feature in-depth interviews conducted by Tom Rinaldi and Erin Andrews, with pit reports from Jamie Little, Kevin Lee, and Georgia Henneberry. The broadcast will also highlight appearances by NFL legends Michael Strahan, serving as the pace car driver, Rob Gronkowski as the Snake Pit grand marshal, and Tom Brady in the Fastest Seat in Sports segment, adding further star power to the event’s presentation.
Implications of Stewart’s Role and What to Expect Next
Tony Stewart’s return as a broadcaster leverages his rich experience and connection with Indiana and IndyCar, offering fans a unique perspective during one of motorsport’s most prestigious events. While his own racing return at the Indianapolis 500 seems doubtful, his voice and expertise across the broadcast will enrich the race’s storytelling and analysis.
The extended pre-race coverage led by Stewart and his co-hosts suggests that FOX Sports is aiming to deepen viewers’ understanding of the race and its drivers. With Stewart’s candid views on competition and the presence of other top motorsports and NFL figures, this year’s broadcast is positioned to engage both longtime fans and newcomers as the legendary Indy 500 unfolds.
