Tony Stewart’s racing life has always been defined by risk, but his post-NASCAR career in NHRA drag racing has pushed the limits in new ways. After taking over Leah Pruett’s Top Fuel dragster in 2024, Stewart embraced the challenge of 300+ mph straight-line racing. A terrifying crash at the 2025 Reading Nationals forced Stewart to confront the hidden dangers of concussions and mechanical violence, sharing candid insights with Dale Earnhardt Jr. about the toll racing takes on a driver’s body and mind.
Key Highlights
- Tony Stewart suffered a terrifying crash at the 2025 Reading Nationals, losing consciousness.
- He discussed concussions and repeated trauma with Dale Earnhardt Jr. on his podcast.
- Stewart took over Leah Pruett’s Top Fuel dragster in 2024, embracing driving duties.
- He will return to NHRA in 2026 with Elite Motorsports while Pruett reclaims her seat.
- Stewart’s 2025 rookie honors, Las Vegas Four-Wide win, and regular-season title prove his capability.
The Reading Nationals Crash
On September 14, 2025, Stewart faced one of his most harrowing moments in motorsports. Doug Kalitta’s front-left tire failure sent his dragster veering across the centerline at 335 mph, striking Stewart’s Top Fuel machine. The impact flipped Stewart’s dragster onto its side before slamming into the guardrail, leaving him unconscious.
“I don’t have a damn clue… I don’t remember any of it.” – Tony Stewart
He emerged with a headache and a sore left hand, a stark reminder of the violent forces drivers endure even outside NASCAR.
Concussions and Mechanical Violence
Stewart elaborated on the cumulative effects of repeated trauma during his conversation with Dale Jr.
“I’ve been knocked out a lot. That’s the problem, you know, for us… with concussions, it’s the same way. If you don’t give your brain time to heal, you’re susceptible to it even more easily.” – Tony Stewart
He described prior incidents, like engine blowups in Seattle, where shockwaves violently jerked his head forward, causing concussions without wall contact. The Reading crash exemplified the unseen hazards of drag racing, showing that the risk to drivers’ brains is ever-present.
“It’s not physically crashing the car into a wall. When those things blow up, it is violent… It’s like being inside a trash can and somebody throws a quarter stick of dynamite in.” – Tony Stewart
Looking Ahead to 2026
Despite the Reading Nationals crash, Stewart is not stepping away. Elite Motorsports confirmed plans for him to drive their Top Fuel dragster in the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA series once funding is secured. The partnership, connected to Tony Stewart Racing, will also involve licensing for Erica Enders and Aaron Stanfield.
“Having Tony as our driver, adding another Top Fuel entry, we’re taking care of the sport and opening up possibilities… letting everyone know our intentions will help.” – Richard Freeman
Stewart will hand back Leah Pruett’s seat for 2026, keeping her Top Fuel dragster ready until her return.
“I said from the very beginning that I was just keeping Leah’s seat warm… she’s coming back in 2026 and that Direct Connection Dodge//SRT Top Fuel dragster is going to have her name on it, not mine.” – Tony Stewart
Life After NASCAR
The 2026 season will be Stewart’s third in Top Fuel, adding a family twist as he competes while Leah Pruett returns. Stewart’s rookie honors, Las Vegas Four-Wide win, and regular-season title, finishing just 18 points shy of the Countdown lead, demonstrate he belongs in the sport. The post-NASCAR chapter is marked by a blend of speed, danger, and candid reflection, giving fans a rare window into the realities behind elite motorsports.
“I still think it’s a terrible idea. It’s a no-win situation for me. If I win, I get kicked to the couch. If she wins, I get to call all my buddies and tell them I got my a– kicked by my wife.” – Tony Stewart
News in Brief: Tony Stewart Details Frightening NHRA Crash and Concussion Risks
Tony Stewart suffered a high-speed crash at the 2025 Reading Nationals, losing consciousness after Doug Kalitta’s tire failure. He shared with Dale Jr. how concussions and mechanical violence are constant risks, detailing previous engine blowups and shockwave injuries. Stewart took over Leah Pruett’s Top Fuel dragster in 2024 and will return to NHRA with Elite Motorsports in 2026, while Pruett reclaims her seat. Stewart’s 2025 rookie honors and Las Vegas Four-Wide win highlight his performance.
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