Tony Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hall of Famer, is set to make a surprising return to NASCAR in 2026 with an entry at Daytona International Speedway. This announcement caught the attention of his wife, Leah Pruett, who expressed shock upon hearing about his NASCAR comeback. Stewart had retired from NASCAR racing after the 2016 season, making this return noteworthy within the racing community.
Stewart will participate in the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series season opener driving the #25 Ram Truck for Kaulig Racing, marking the return of Dodge and Stellantis to NASCAR. This effort is part of Kaulig Racing’s Free Agent Driver Program, designed to spotlight experienced drivers behind the wheel of their Ram trucks.
When Leah Pruett, a top competitor in NHRA Top Fuel drag racing, learned of her husband’s decision, she was taken aback by the risk involved.
“She looked at me and she’s like, ‘Why would you do that?’ She goes, ‘You’ve always told me it’s about a 70% chance you’re going to get wrecked out of any race at Daytona.’”
?Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer and driver
Daytona International Speedway, known for its fast speeds and tightly packed pack racing, has a reputation for frequent and unpredictable wrecks that challenge even the most skilled drivers.
Significance of Stewart’s Return Beyond Competition
For Tony Stewart, this comeback is not primarily about pursuing victories or breaking records; rather, it symbolizes a meaningful moment for the Dodge, Stellantis, and Ram brands. Stewart, aged 54, maintains a close connection to Dodge through his current role in NHRA drag racing, piloting a Top Fuel dragster for Elite Motorsports.
With Ram re-entering NASCAR after an absence exceeding ten years, Stewart views his race at Daytona as an ideal occasion to showcase this revival in partnership with Stellantis.
“I told her this is how much the Dodge brand, Stellantis and Ram mean to me. Is it the most ideal race for me to run as a driver? Probably not, in all reality.”
?Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer and driver
Stewart’s First Truck Series Start at Daytona Scheduled
Regarded as one of the sport’s legends, Tony Stewart will compete at Daytona in the NASCAR Truck Series for the first time since 2005, marking his return to NASCAR racing after nearly ten years. Notably, Stewart has never previously raced in the Truck Series at a superspeedway such as Daytona.
Reflecting on his upcoming Truck Series debut with Ram’s Free Agent Driver Program, Stewart shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity.
“I’ve raced just about everything with four wheels at Daytona, but never a truck. So when a seat in the new Ram was offered up for their first race back in NASCAR, I didn’t hesitate. Ram’s Free Agent program is another great way for me to stay sharp and have a little fun.”
?Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer and driver
Throughout his Truck Series career, Stewart has achieved two wins and five top-10 finishes in six starts, showcasing his versatility and talent across NASCAR’s divisions.
Fans can look forward to watching Stewart, often known by his nickname “The Smoke,” compete in the Daytona Truck race slated for Friday, February 13, 2026.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Stewart’s Return to NASCAR
Tony Stewart’s reentry into NASCAR carries significance not only for his personal racing legacy but also for the automotive brands aligned with him. The collaboration between Dodge, Stellantis, and Kaulig Racing signals a renewed commitment to NASCAR’s competitive landscape. Stewart’s presence in the 2026 Truck Series opener at Daytona is expected to draw attention to Ram’s return and may inspire further involvement from veteran drivers through programs like Kaulig’s Free Agent initiative.
This event represents a blend of nostalgia and forward momentum, highlighting an iconic driver’s willingness to challenge the sport’s inherent risks while championing long-standing brand partnerships. As the race approaches, observers and supporters of NASCAR will watch closely to see how Stewart navigates the high-speed demands of superspeedway racing in a category new to him.
