Racing superstar Tony Stewart has entered the ongoing discussion about FOX giving IndyCar the title of “Fastest Racing on Earth” instead of NHRA, questioning the accuracy and fairness of that claim. The debate comes after FOX, the new broadcast partner of IndyCar for 2025, unveiled the tagline, drawing reactions across the motorsports community.
The use of the phrase “Fastest Racing on Earth” by FOX has generated controversy among racers and fans alike, particularly after NHRA Funny Car driver Bob Tasca publicly challenged the branding. Tasca pointed out that NHRA vehicles achieve significantly higher speeds than IndyCar counterparts, calling FOX’s decision a disrespect to drag racing and its supporters.
Tony Stewart’s Experience With Both Series Shapes His Critique
Tony Stewart has a unique vantage point in the debate, having built his career in both IndyCar and NHRA. Stewart, currently competing in the NHRA Top Fuel class, found himself at the center of attention when his own team, Tony Stewart Racing Nitro, posted an image on X featuring a fan’s poster in the background proclaiming:
“”This” is the fastest racing on earth.”
The team echoed this sentiment, reinforcing their agreement with the fan’s statement. Stewart, at age 54, responded succinctly to the post:
“He’s not,” wrote the 54-year-old, siding with the fan’s poster.
Stewart’s credentials include a championship in the Indy Racing League (now IndyCar) in 1997 with Team Menard after an impressive rookie year in 1996, highlighted by a pole position at the Indianapolis 500. He later cemented his place in NASCAR history by winning three Cup Series drivers’ championships and a fourth as a team owner.
Stewart Raises Concerns Over FOX’s Marketing Approach
This is not the first instance of Tony Stewart voicing disagreement with FOX’s choice of branding for IndyCar. Shortly after Bob Tasca brought attention to the issue, Stewart also openly sided with his NHRA colleague, expressing sharp criticism of the “Fastest Racing on Earth” tagline. Stewart remarked:
“They’re (FOX) doing some false advertising. They keep saying that IndyCar’s got the fastest cars. I don’t know what the hell they’re watching. They’re missing their mark by 100 miles an hour. They’re the fastest ones that turn during their lap.”
The factual basis for this debate lies in the top speed numbers, with IndyCars capable of reaching just over 240 mph, while NHRA machines regularly exceed 340 mph. Notably, Bob Tasca himself set a blazing record of 341.68 mph at the Pro Superstar shootout in 2024, reinforcing NHRA’s reputation for straight-line speed.
Hopes for IndyCar’s Growth Despite the Dispute
Although critical of FOX’s portrayal, Stewart acknowledged the positive potential of the new broadcasting partnership for IndyCar. He expressed his optimism for the future of the series and also recognized FOX’s contributions to drag racing:
“But, you know, I’m excited for IndyCar on it. I’m excited for FOX. I mean, FOX has been a great partner to NHRA, and to see them branch out to a different form of motorsports and get in the IndyCar side is huge,” he said.
Stewart’s recent success includes capturing his first NHRA Top Fuel event victory at the Las Vegas Four-Wide Nationals in April. Heading into the next phase of the NHRA season, Stewart leads the Top Fuel standings by 52 points over Shawn Langdon.
The Debate’s Broader Implications for Motorsports Fans
The disagreement over FOX’s tagline has spotlighted the different appeals of various racing disciplines and the power of broadcast marketing in shaping public perception. Prominent figures like Tony Stewart and Bob Tasca have brought industry attention to the achievements and identity of NHRA. The debate continues to stir discussion among fans, as both series prepare for their next chapters under the media spotlight.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Tony Stewart quit?
A. Stewart-Haas Racing is shutting down after 16 years due to difficulties in securing sponsors as a team with four cars. Stewart is leaving the sport during ongoing tensions between NASCAR and its teams regarding the sport’s future.
Q. Did Tony Stewart drive F1?
A. TAMPA — Tony Stewart has dedicated most of his life to racing almost every type of car. He has competed in the Indianapolis 500 and the Daytona 500, and he has won titles in go-karts, sprint cars, NASCAR, and IndyCar. He even got a chance to test drive a Formula One car. Throughout all these experiences, he never felt scared about driving any of them, he said.
