Tony Stewart has revealed his intentions for the 2026 NHRA season, confirming he will drive for Elite Motorsports. The announcement of Tony Stewart 2026 NHRA plans came in a Thanksgiving post where Stewart expressed appreciation for his family, team, and the new opportunity ahead.
Stewart’s message of gratitude referred directly to Elite Motorsports and aligns with earlier details reported by FloRacing in September 2025. Back then, Richard Freeman, owner of Elite Motorsports, outlined plans for Stewart to join the team’s Top Fuel dragster operation as soon as the necessary sponsorship was in place. This move is part of Elite’s efforts to increase its impact in the NHRA and expand its roster of competitive drivers alongside Stewart. In his post, Stewart stated,
“Thankful today and every day for my family, my teams, @EliteMotorsLLC for my new ride next season, and @RLCarriers for being part of the journey. 🦃”
The expansion of Elite Motorsports resulted from Freeman acquiring the Top Fuel operation from Josh Hart, with the intent of having Tony Stewart behind the wheel once financial conditions were met. Freeman also aimed to have Erica Enders and Aaron Stanfield test and qualify in the dragster, supporting Elite’s growth plans. Their ongoing marketing alliance ensures Stewart remains active as both a driver and owner at Tony Stewart Racing, even as he steps into his role with Elite. Leah Pruett, Stewart’s wife, will return to her own seat with Tony Stewart Racing in 2026, as previously expected.
Stewart’s Track Record and Team Developments
Entering his third season in Top Fuel in 2026, Stewart’s previous campaigns have been impressive. He was named Rookie of the Year in 2024, and in 2025 achieved his first Top Fuel win in Las Vegas, followed by a second victory and a regular season championship. Stewart finished the 2025 season in a close competition for the overall NHRA title.
According to Autoweek, Elite Motorsports has strengthened its Top Fuel operation around Stewart by bringing in experienced crew chief Mike Green. Green, who joined from Justin Ashley’s team, is equipped with championship credentials and is set to debut with Elite at the 2026 Gatornationals. Freeman also secured the R+L Carriers dragster previously driven by Josh Hart as part of the revamped lineup.
Looking Back: Stewart’s Early Work and Racing Roots
As Stewart prepares for another competitive season, memories of his early work have resurfaced. In a 2015 USA Today feature, Stewart recalled receiving his first paycheck as a sound technician during his high school years at the Bartholomew County School Corporation, sharing,
“My first official paycheck came from the Bartholomew County School Corporation. I worked at the school auditorium and it was like 12 dollars and 70 cents for working a show.”
“Lighting and sound. I’d have been probably a junior in high school….It was just a job while I was in school. Actually I’d had jobs before that, but that was the first job where I got an official paycheck.”
Born in 1971 and starting his racing career with go karts, Stewart won his first championship by 1980. He is notably the only driver to have earned both IndyCar and NASCAR titles, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite competitors. His entry into Top Fuel saw him step in for Leah Pruett, and the 2026 season will mark the first year Stewart and Pruett compete in direct opposition, with Stewart racing for Elite Motorsports and Pruett continuing her journey with Tony Stewart Racing Nitro.
The Road Ahead for Stewart and Elite Motorsports
With Tony Stewart confirmed at the wheel of Elite’s Top Fuel dragster, the organization is poised to reinforce its presence in NHRA competition. Backed by the expertise of Mike Green and the strategic vision of Richard Freeman, Elite is preparing for a significant season. As Stewart and Leah Pruett gear up to race against each other in 2026, all eyes will be on how their rivalry and team changes shape the coming year in drag racing.
Thankful today and every day for my family, my teams, @EliteMotorsLLC for my new ride next season, and @RLCarriers for being part of the journey. 🦃 #HappyThanksgiving #Thankful pic.twitter.com/HNOsVgBj5s
— Tony Stewart (@TonyStewart) November 27, 2025
