Tony Stewart’s run of success in the NHRA has made headlines, while his wife Leah Pruett is getting ready to step back into the spotlight for the 2026 season. Their journey has featured big changes following the birth of their son, with Tony Stewart NHRA achievements providing a new chapter for the storied racing couple.
Family Milestones Influence the Stewart-Pruett Racing Journey
During a lively offseason event, Leah Pruett and Tony Stewart shared a light moment with fans as Pruett’s son, Dominic, attempted to commandeer the microphone mid-speech, playfully turning it off and giving everyone a laugh. The moment was later shared on Pruett’s Instagram, along with her remark:
“I thought I was gonna give a speech, but Dom had other plans. 🚫🎤 😂.” — Leah Pruett, NHRA Driver
The arrival of Dominic James Stewart in November 2024 marked a significant moment for the couple and prompted Pruett to pause her full-time racing career to focus on their growing family. In her absence, Tony Stewart stepped behind the wheel of the Direct Connection Dodge/SRT Top Fuel dragster for Tony Stewart Racing (TSR), taking on a fresh challenge in Top Fuel racing.
Tony Stewart’s Growth and NHRA Breakthrough
Stewart’s transition to the NHRA was both swift and successful. He captured NHRA Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and followed that initial impact with an even stronger 2025 season. He scored victories in Las Vegas and Chicago, reached the final round in Pomona, and secured the regular-season Top Fuel championship. These Tony Stewart NHRA achievements not only underscored his rapid adjustment to drag racing but also validated TSR’s internal transition, showcasing the strength of their collaborative approach.
Leah Pruett’s Return to Full-Time Racing
Looking ahead to 2026, the Stewart-Pruett dynamic is set for another change. Leah Pruett is preparing for her highly anticipated comeback behind the wheel of the Direct Connection Dodge/SRT Top Fuel dragster, once again representing TSR. Her return will coincide with Stewart moving to an Elite Motorsports-backed seat, creating an exciting scenario with both partners competing in NHRA’s Top Fuel ranks.
At a recent PRI NHRA gathering, Pruett appeared alongside Stewart, full of energy about her next chapter. She shared her enthusiasm for returning to the sport with a social media post, declaring her readiness for what lies ahead. Leah Pruett has already ramped up her testing schedule and plans to intensify her preparations following the Christmas break, aiming to return stronger than ever for her first full NHRA campaign as a mother.
What Awaits for the Tony Stewart Racing Team in 2026
Both Tony Stewart and Leah Pruett are set to compete under the Tony Stewart Racing banner during the 2026 NHRA season, which kicks off March 5-8. Stewart’s learning curve and impressive accomplishments have set a high bar for the coming year, while Pruett’s anticipated return adds buzz to an already dynamic team atmosphere. Their shared journey emphasizes not only personal milestones but also the evolution of their professional racing chapters. As the new season approaches, the spotlight will remain on the achievements and transitions of Tony Stewart, Leah Pruett, and their family-focused race team, highlighting how the interplay of personal growth and sporting ambition continues to shape the NHRA landscape.
Comeback Season starts NOW! #PRI @nhra@tsrnitro@myprishow@tmstitanium@VP_Racing_Fuels@LincolnElectric@SimpsonRacing pic.twitter.com/yHRYnF2hRT
— Leah Pruett (@LeahPruett_TF) December 13, 2025
