The Tony Stewart family milestone at Brainerd was highlighted on Sunday, August 17, as Leah Pruett marked their son Dominic James Stewart’s ninth month with a touching video from Brainerd Raceway. Pruett shared the moment on Instagram while attending Tony Stewart’s participation in the NHRA Nationals at the same venue, emphasizing a significant family moment at the racetrack.
Tony Stewart and Leah Pruett announced their engagement in March 2021, marrying that November in Los Cabos, Mexico. Dominic was born on November 17, 2024, and since then, Leah Pruett has prioritized her new role as a mother over her racing duties. This adjustment saw Tony Stewart take the wheel for NHRA events, including the recent competition at Brainerd International Raceway.
Leah’s celebration on social media coincided with a busy race day. She posted a brief message highlighting her son’s milestone:
“Dominic is nine months old today.”
—Leah Pruett, Professional Race Car Driver
On the track, Tony Stewart advanced past Josh Hart in the first round but was later knocked out in the quarter-finals, ultimately finishing sixth in the Top Fuel division. Doug Callitta secured victory in that category, while Stewart now holds second place in the championship standings, trailing Shawn Langdon by 48 points.
Leah Pruett Returns to Top Fuel Dragster After Extended Break
Leah Pruett made her return to the cockpit of a Top Fuel dragster after 499 days away, participating in a private test session organized by Tony Stewart Racing at Virginia. In an emotional Instagram post, she reflected on her experience getting back behind the wheel and balancing her responsibilities as both a racer and mother:
“499 days. That’s how long it had been since I last wheeled a Top Fueler — until Monday. ☺️ And trust me… I didn’t care that we were testing in some of the nastiest conditions ever (98.6º ambient, 146º on the track). After 499 days out of the seat… it felt incredibly good to knock the rust off.
—Leah Pruett, Professional Race Car Driver
“This test day had been in the works for months. I drove Tony’s car — the one built and fitted for him. Swapped out seat inserts and a couple belts, and I was… dialed in-ish. 😏 We got in 3 good hits in, checked off key items from our parts test list, and left @racevmp with self assurance that ‘racer Leah’ can absolutely co-exist with ‘mamma Leah.’”
—Leah Pruett, Professional Race Car Driver
While her return to competitive racing has not been officially scheduled, Leah Pruett’s successful test suggests that she is navigating the challenges of being both an elite driver and a mother. Her performance and detailed reflections underscore the realities faced by families and athletes balancing careers and parenting in motorsports.
Tony Stewart’s Form in the NHRA and Ongoing Family Journey
During Leah’s pause from racing, Tony Stewart has continued to post strong results in the NHRA, tallying two wins in the Top Fuel category and two more in Top Alcohol Dragsters. His sixth-place finish at Brainerd and achievement of a second consecutive Countdown Berth highlight his competitive form this season.
The Tony Stewart family milestone at Brainerd marks more than a racing achievement; it emphasizes the evolving roles and shared journeys within their family. As Stewart remains a title contender and Leah makes steps toward returning to racing, the next chapter for the Stewart-Pruett family promises continued achievements at the intersection of motorsport and family life.
