NASCAR icon Tony Stewart will compete in the NHRA Top Fuel division for the 2026 season, driving for Elite Motorsports after changes within his previous team. The announcement confirms Stewart’s ongoing commitment to drag racing, marking a significant shift in his racing journey.
Transition from Tony Stewart Racing to New Opportunities
The 54-year-old driver revealed his plans during a recent episode of Kevin Harvick’s podcast, where he discussed moving away from his own Tony Stewart Racing (TSR) team due to internal changes. Stewart will now join Elite Motorsports, stepping into a new environment after a period of uncertainty regarding his future within the sport.
A major factor in this shift was the return of his wife, Leah Pruett, an experienced NHRA racer, who is competing again after taking time off since 2023. Her comeback created a reshuffle in driver roles, as Stewart had taken over Pruett’s driving responsibilities during her absence, demonstrating his skill and adaptability behind the wheel.
Recent Performance and Season Highlights
Stewart earned Rookie of the Year honors last season in the NHRA Top Fuel division and followed up with an impressive performance this year by winning the Regular Season Championship. Despite a setback caused by a viral crash during the Finals Round Two of the Reading Nationals, Stewart remains firmly in second place in the overall points standings.
“He’ll be driving an NHRA Top Fuel car for Elite Motorsports in 2026. @TonyStewart tells @KevinHarvick about the unique opportunity to race against his wife @LeahPruett_TF.” — HarvickHappyHour
Ongoing Involvement in Other Racing Ventures
Although Stewart has focused more on drag racing and sold his NASCAR team last year, he continues to engage with sprint car racing. Tony Stewart Racing recently announced a strategic move to the High Limit Series, signing Rico Abreu, the current points leader, for the upcoming 2026 season, signaling a fresh chapter for the team.
Significance of Stewart’s 2026 Racing Plans
This development highlights Tony Stewart’s evolving career in motorsports, embracing new challenges in NHRA drag racing while maintaining ties to sprint car racing. Joining Elite Motorsports not only offers Stewart a fresh platform but also the rare chance to compete directly against his wife, a unique dynamic in professional motorsports. Fans and followers will be watching closely as Stewart continues to make his mark in the racing world in 2026.
He'll be driving an NHRA Top Fuel car for Elite Motorsports in 2026. @TonyStewart tells @KevinHarvick about the unique opportunity to race against his wife @LeahPruett_TF. pic.twitter.com/vUZnHtpSog
— HarvickHappyHour (@HarvickHappyPod) September 18, 2025
