Legendary NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart is making a surprising return to NHRA racing this weekend at zMAX Dragway, preparing to compete in the 4-Wide Carolina Nationals from September 19-21. This comeback comes just days after Stewart endured a harrowing high-speed collision, marking a dramatic moment in his ongoing pursuit of the NHRA championship.
At 54 years old, Stewart will join teammate Matt Hagan in this high-stakes event, emphasizing his determination to continue competing despite the recent setback. The intense nature of the crash and the quick recovery have captured the attention and concern of fans and participants alike.
Details of Stewart’s Near-Fatal Collision and Rapid Recovery
The incident that sidelined Stewart occurred during eliminations at the Reading Nationals on September 14. Traveling at over 325 mph, Stewart’s dragster was struck after Doug Kalitta’s left front tire failed immediately after the finish line. Kalitta’s dragster veered across the centerline, colliding violently with Stewart’s lane.
The impact caused Stewart’s Dodge Direct Connection Top Fuel dragster to flip onto its side before righting itself and smashing into a concrete barrier. Stewart was knocked unconscious and was initially motionless, heightening concern for his safety.
I don’t have a damn clue, honestly. I honestly don’t remember any of it,
Stewart shared reflecting on the crash.
The first thing I remember, they’re waking me up here. Not sure what happened, but it appears to have been pretty massive.
— Tony Stewart, Racing Legend
Despite the severity of the crash, Stewart’s optimistic outlook was clear. He acknowledged soreness but expressed eagerness to get back on track.
I’m sore today, but that’s to be expected,
Stewart wrote on social media.
I can’t wait to get back to the track Friday and continue this amazing battle for a World Championship.
— Tony Stewart, Racing Legend
Championship Implications as Stewart Faces Tough Competition in Charlotte
The timing of Stewart’s crash puts his championship ambitions in sharp focus. Holding the NHRA Top Fuel regular season title, Stewart clinched a $150,000 bonus at the Indianapolis U.S. Nationals but dropped to second place in the points standings following his collision. Now 18 points behind Doug Kalitta, the stakes for the upcoming event are higher than ever.
The 4-Wide Carolina Nationals at zMAX Dragway introduces a new level of competition with four cars racing simultaneously across its unique four-lane setup. Nearly 50,000 horsepower will thunder down the track in an unprecedented format for the Countdown to the Championship playoffs.
Stewart’s confidence stems from strong prior performances, including reaching the final round of the spring’s four-wide event and achieving his first Top Fuel victory in Las Vegas. His breakthrough win featured a remarkable 3.870-second pass at speeds exceeding 317 mph, signaling his swift adaptation from NASCAR to NHRA racing since his 2024 transition.
The Road Ahead: What Stewart’s Return Means for NHRA Fans and the Championship Race
Stewart’s rapid return showcases his resilience and determination, breathing new life into an already intense championship battle. His presence at Charlotte elevates the excitement surrounding the debut of four-wide elimination racing in the playoffs and demonstrates the grit necessary to overcome significant adversity.
As Stewart and Kalitta resume their competition, the outcome at zMAX Dragway will play a crucial role in shaping the final stages of the NHRA season. Fans will be watching closely to see if Stewart’s remarkable comeback can translate into championship success after such a turbulent few days on the track.
Heading south to @zMAXDragway for another 4-wide event in Charlotte! @MattHagan_FC and @TonyStewart will be driving their #Dodge Direct Connection machines. #TSRnitro | #NHRA pic.twitter.com/0e8JdNl49d
— Tony Stewart Racing Nitro (@TSRnitro) September 16, 2025
