The Tony Stewart Watkins Glen incident remains one of NASCAR’s most memorable confrontations, resurfacing as the Cup Series heads back to Watkins Glen International. In the 2000 race, Stewart and Jeff Gordon collided, igniting a heated exchange and a promise of payback that fans still discuss today.
Back in 2000, Jeff Gordon was competing for his seventh consecutive road course victory as a Hendrick Motorsports driver. However, those aspirations vanished almost immediately when Tony Stewart made contact, sending Gordon’s car into the guardrail. The resulting damage took Gordon out of contention, fueling intense frustration for both drivers. Stewart’s move came after Gordon had reportedly bumped him several times in the early laps, escalating the tension between the two champions.
The confrontation quickly escalated with sharp words exchanged moments after the crash. Stewart confronted Gordon, directly highlighting the hypocrisy he perceived in Gordon’s driving style and advice:
“You’d better practice what you preach,”
Stewart had told Gordon.
“You’re always telling me to take it easy on the first lap. You think I did it on purpose?”
—Tony Stewart, Driver
Gordon, unwilling to dismiss the incident, fired back with an unmistakable threat of retaliation:
“I’ll slam you straight in the wall the next time you are anywhere near me. I owe you one now buddy!”
—Jeff Gordon, Driver
Although the Watkins Glen incident left lasting memories for fans and participants, the animosity between Stewart and Gordon faded over time. Years later, during a 2016 interview with USA Today, Gordon reflected on how their relationship evolved from rivals to friends within the motorsport community:
“I’ve gained so much admiration and respect for Tony. I love this guy!”
—Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
While Jeff Gordon retired from racing, his connection to NASCAR remains strong. Since 2022, Gordon has held the position of Vice Chairman at Hendrick Motorsports, contributing to the organization he once led to victory as a driver. He also participates in the NASCAR team owner council and is a member of the diversity, equity, and inclusion committee.
On the other hand, Tony Stewart never stepped away from the thrill of competition. After his NASCAR career, Stewart’s focus shifted to drag racing, where he now competes in the NHRA. Currently, Stewart is in his second full-time season behind the wheel of his wife’s Top Fuel dragster, embracing new racing challenges.
Tony Stewart’s Fearless Reputation Remembered by Mark Martin
Stewart’s approach throughout his NASCAR career was characterized by fearlessness, both in and out of the car. He expressed candid opinions about the sport’s evolution, criticizing changes and speaking his mind where others hesitated. This unapologetic attitude helped to define Stewart’s presence, making him a standout personality on and off the track.
Mark Martin, a fellow NASCAR legend recognized for his own candid critiques, recently discussed Stewart’s rare ability to express himself openly without facing repercussions. During an episode of the Spake Up Podcast hosted by Shannon Spake, Martin recalled how Stewart’s undeniable talent gave him the freedom to speak out:
“Tony Stewart was the only guy that came along, and I was like, everything he said I had thought, but I wouldn’t say it out loud. Tony was the only guy that was so damn good. He was so talented that he could get away with saying (anything).”
—Mark Martin, Former NASCAR Driver
As NASCAR’s Go Bowling at The Glen draws near, anticipation continues to build for another action-packed event at Watkins Glen International. The 90-lap Cup Series race promises excitement for fans, airing live on USA at 2 pm ET on August 10, with radio coverage available via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. The rivalry between Stewart and Gordon may be a thing of the past, yet its echoes still resonate as the Cup Series returns to the scene of their legendary clash.
