Veteran driver Tony Stewart will continue his drag racing career by joining Elite Motorsports in the NHRA Top Fuel class for the 2026 season, following changes at his own team. The announcement highlights Stewart’s commitment to the sport and strengthens the presence of well-known figures like Leah Pruett in the NHRA, reinforcing the importance of the Tony Stewart NHRA Top Fuel story in motorsports news.
Departure From Tony Stewart Racing and Family Developments
Stewart’s decision comes after shifts within his operation, Tony Stewart Racing (TSR), which will not field him in Top Fuel next year. The change was prompted by the return of NHRA standout Leah Pruett, who took a break to start a family with Stewart. With Pruett set to race again for the first time since 2023, Stewart’s own future in the sport had been uncertain, but he will now drive for Elite Motorsports instead of TSR.
He’ll be driving an NHRA Top Fuel car for Elite Motorsports in 2026. @TonyStewart tells @KevinHarvick about the unique opportunity to race against his wife @LeahPruett_TF. pic.twitter.com/vUZnHtpSog — HarvickHappyHour (@HarvickHappyPod)
Recent Achievements and Challenges in Drag Racing
Stewart entered Top Fuel recently, filling in during Pruett’s hiatus, and quickly established himself as a contender. His impact was immediate, earning Rookie of the Year honors last season. This year, Stewart expanded on that success, winning the NHRA Top Fuel division Regular Season Championship. However, his season has not been without setbacks—he experienced a highly publicized crash during the Finals Round Two at the Reading Nationals but still maintains second in the standings.
Restructuring at Tony Stewart Racing and Future Plans
While shifting away from NASCAR by selling his team last year, Stewart has not departed from racing entirely. He remains involved in sprint car racing and continues to oversee Tony Stewart Racing. Recently, the organization underwent further restructuring, announcing their move to the High Limit Series and signing current points leader Rico Abreu for the 2026 season, positioning TSR for continued relevance in different motorsport formats.
Significance and What to Watch For
Tony Stewart’s transition to Elite Motorsports signals both his ongoing dedication to drag racing and the changing landscape of NHRA Top Fuel competition. With high-profile athletes such as Stewart and Leah Pruett slated to compete both against and alongside each other, fans can expect the 2026 season to be one of the more compelling in recent NHRA memory. Additionally, TSR’s activity in the High Limit Series and the involvement of drivers like Rico Abreu ensure that Stewart’s influence will remain strong in multiple racing disciplines. All eyes will be on the track as Tony Stewart begins this new chapter with Elite Motorsports.
He'll be driving an NHRA Top Fuel car for Elite Motorsports in 2026. @TonyStewart tells @KevinHarvick about the unique opportunity to race against his wife @LeahPruett_TF. pic.twitter.com/vUZnHtpSog
— HarvickHappyHour (@HarvickHappyPod) September 18, 2025
