Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer, recently highlighted Kyle Larson‘s extraordinary versatility in motorsports, sparking discussion on Tony Stewart racing achievements during a recent podcast appearance. The conversation took place on the Dale Jr. Download, where Stewart described Larson’s rare ability to adapt to and succeed in a wide array of racing vehicles.
Appearing alongside hosts Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Mike Davis of Dirty Mo Media, Stewart delved into what sets Larson apart within today’s NASCAR landscape. Stewart explained that it’s uncommon to find drivers with the same level of adaptability and skill as Larson, comparing him to legends like Mario Andretti, who achieved victories across Formula One, IndyCar, sports cars, and NASCAR itself.
Stewart Commends Larson’s Versatility on Track
Throughout the interview, Stewart emphasized how Larson’s capability shines whether he’s competing in Late Models, Sprint Cars, or top-level NASCAR Cup races. Stewart expressed admiration for how Larson consistently elevates every car he drives, a characteristic that distinguishes him in a competitive field.
“The funny thing about that kid is that you just pick him up, you put him in a car, ‘Go play nice with the other kids.’ Just send him off; you don’t have to tell him anything,”
Tony Stewart said of Larson.
“You just send him off and let him drive. And he figures it out.”
– Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer
Stewart went on to point out how rare it is to see drivers excel across such a variety of racing categories in today’s motorsport world. He specifically described Larson as a stand-out talent with a unique gift for adapting to different vehicles.
“What he does, going from Late Models to Sprint Cars and then getting in the Cup car, and how good he is at all of them… you don’t find guys like that anymore. He is the diamond in the rough for sure,”
Stewart added. – Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer
Changes and Achievements in Stewart’s Racing Career
Alongside his recognition of Larson, Stewart has continued to make headlines with his own achievements and changes within the racing scene. Most recently, he concluded his 2025 NHRA campaign at the In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals hosted in Pomona, California. Piloting his wife Leah Pruett’s TSR Dodge//SRT Direct Connection Top Fuel Dragster, Stewart capped off the season in fifth place in the points standings.
Stewart’s Substitute Role and Future Plans
During Leah Pruett’s break from NHRA racing—taken to welcome a child with Stewart—the former NASCAR champion stepped in as her replacement driver. Stewart’s foray into drag racing resulted in a milestone: he secured his first NHRA Top Fuel win at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in April 2025, followed by a second victory at the Route 66 Nationals in Chicago just a month later.
Stewart made it clear that his role as substitute was always temporary. As Leah Pruett returns to her seat for the 2026 NHRA season, Stewart addressed the reasons why his tenure in her Dragster would not continue indefinitely.
“I said from the very beginning that I was just keeping Leah’s seat warm and that it was hers as soon as she was ready to come back. And as much as I wanted to continue driving, TSR is not in a position to add a second Top Fuel car.”
– Tony Stewart, NASCAR Hall of Famer
Looking ahead, Stewart is preparing for a move to Elite Motorsports, signaling a new chapter in his multifaceted career. Notably, in 2024, he was crowned NHRA Rookie of the Year and will mark his third consecutive NHRA season in 2026, deepening his legacy among multi-disciplinary racers.
By reflecting on his own path alongside standout contemporary talents like Kyle Larson, Stewart continues to showcase the impact of adaptability and dedication in motor racing, both as a competitor and a mentor. His observations underline the unique blend of skill and mindset required to thrive across motorsport’s shifting landscape, with figures like Mario Andretti, Leah Pruett, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. demonstrating the sport’s rich heritage and ongoing evolution.
Who's on the Mount Rushmore of multi-disciplined race car drivers? 🏎️⛰️@TonyStewart | @DaleJr | @MikeDavis88 pic.twitter.com/ii9p5IKz3U
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) November 28, 2025
