Joe Gibbs on Tony Stewart NASCAR provides new insight into how doubt and timing influenced Stewart’s remarkable journey to becoming a three-time Cup Series champion. Gibbs recently discussed the challenges Stewart faced before rising to prominence as one of the most formidable drivers in NASCAR history.
Early Hesitations Before Cup Series Success
Joe Gibbs, reflecting on Tony Stewart’s formative years, describes how Stewart was initially uncertain about making the leap to the NASCAR Cup Series. Although Stewart had intended to join the Cup ranks in 1997 with Ranier-Walsh Racing, his plans changed following part-time stints in the Xfinity Series, then known as the Busch Series, racing for Bobby Labonte’s program between 1996 and 1997. The shift came after Joe Gibbs Racing acquired Labonte Motorsports in 1998, which opened the door for Stewart to focus further on developing his skills in the lower series before tackling NASCAR’s highest level.
During a conversation on the Happy Hour podcast with Kevin Harvick, Gibbs recounted how he pursued Stewart while the driver was still under contract to Harry Ranier. Stewart’s self-awareness played a crucial role in the decision on when to move up.
“Tony really understood himself and he said, ‘Hey Joe, I’m not ready for Cup. … They wanted me to drive Cup and I’m not ready.’ So we put him in Xfinity. I don’t know if you remember that or not, that man wrecked more cars and sometimes he would wreck three times. I would say, ‘Hey, just park it after the first time for crying out loud.’ And didn’t win a race,” Gibbs shared (18:20 onwards). —Joe Gibbs, NASCAR Team Owner
In 1998, Stewart competed in 22 Busch Series races, achieving five top-five finishes and narrowly missing a win at Rockingham after being overtaken by Matt Kenseth on the final lap. His time in the Xfinity Series helped prepare him for the challenges ahead.
Breakthrough and Championship Era at Joe Gibbs Racing
Stewart’s Cup Series debut was marked by immediate impact, securing three victories, earning the Rookie of the Year award, and finishing fourth in the overall standings. This strong entrance paved the way for a decade-long partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing, resulting in two Cup Series championships in 2002 and 2005, and a total of 32 race wins. Key NASCAR figures like Dale Jarrett and Bobby Labonte established a foundation, but Stewart’s presence helped build the team‘s reputation for competitiveness and success.
In July 2008, Stewart parted ways with JGR amicably to drive for and co-own Stewart-Haas Racing alongside Gene Haas. Joey Logano was chosen to fill Stewart’s seat in the No. 20 Toyota starting the following year.
Stewart’s Influence and Team-Building Moments
On the same podcast episode, Joe Gibbs spoke about Stewart’s relentless work ethic and the pivotal role he played at JGR during its rise in NASCAR’s elite division.
“I tell you the great thing about Tony, whatever the mess was, okay, the next day, he honestly would say, ‘Tell what I got to do? Tell me, you know, the sponsor, what I got to do, what if I got to pay money? What do I got to do?’ And so, but we had it was really, really enjoyable with him and he helped us really get started,” Gibbs said (19:20 onwards). —Joe Gibbs, NASCAR Team Owner
Gibbs further described Stewart’s unique training ideas, such as asking for a sauna equipped with a bike inside the new shop—a request that was ultimately turned down, saving the team a considerable sum. These anecdotes offered a glimpse into Stewart’s determined yet unconventional approach to preparation and team dynamics.
Stewart’s story illustrates how careful decision-making, self-doubt, and mentorship can influence an athlete’s path to stardom. The partnership between Tony Stewart and Joe Gibbs Racing not only shaped Stewart’s championship career but also established the team’s long-standing legacy in NASCAR, leaving a mark that continues to influence the sport and its future stars.
