Racing legend Tony Stewart will serve as Grand Marshal for the 40th annual Chili Bowl Nationals, set for January 12-17, 2026, at the SageNet Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The honor recognizes Stewart’s ongoing influence on the sport and his historic ties to the Chili Bowl Nationals, with strong anticipation already building among motorsports fans.
Celebrating Tony Stewart’s Multifaceted Racing Achievements
Tony Stewart, often mentioned alongside racing’s greatest names, holds a distinct position in motorsports history. A champion in the USAC Triple Crown series and a two-time Chili Bowl winner in 2002 and 2007, Stewart’s career includes major driving titles across NASCAR, IndyCar, NHRA, and the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX). His breadth of achievements has solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile drivers in the sport.
This return to Tulsa as Grand Marshal highlights the event’s appreciation for Stewart, a Columbus, Indiana native also known as “Smoke.” His involvement in the Chili Bowl—both as a superlative competitor and as a bridge between different motorsport fan bases—has left a lasting impact on the race’s reputation and growth.
Stewart’s Enduring Impact on the Chili Bowl Nationals
Chili Bowl co-founder Emmett Hahn emphasized Stewart’s pivotal role in the event’s rise, stating,
“Not only is Tony a winner here, but he was also part of what really made the Chili Bowl take off in the early 2000s, and was the one who really started to rebuild the connection between dirt track and NASCAR fans. He’s an ambassador to our sport at more levels than anyone; he’s a great friend, and they don’t make them like Tony anymore, so being able to honor him as our Grand Marshal means a lot to me, and this event,”
– Emmett Hahn, Co-founder.
Stewart was previously honored for his contributions to sprint car racing and the Chili Bowl’s success.
“I remember, we made Tony an award in 2014 to recognize what he has done for Sprint Car racing, but this is our chance to let him know how much the Chili Bowl appreciates him.”
– Emmett Hahn, Co-founder.
Over 14 appearances at the Chili Bowl, Stewart has earned two Golden Driller victories, made 12 championship A-Feature starts, achieved three podium finishes, captured four top-five results, and tallied seven finishes within the top ten. Stewart’s last A-Feature start came in 2013. Beyond driving, he has contributed to the event’s track preparations, working alongside noted crew members, including Brad Chandler, Steve Hahn, Matt Ward, and Martin Edwards.
Legacy as Champion Driver and Owner
Stewart’s influence extends far beyond his racing career. As a team owner, he has claimed a NASCAR championship and has amassed 14 USAC owner titles, nine World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series titles, and four All Star Circuit of Champions TQ Midgets Series titles. Notably, Stewart has triumphed 12 times at the prestigious Knoxville Nationals, a highlight in sprint car racing.
Since acquiring Eldora Speedway in 2004, Stewart has celebrated his cars winning the King’s Royal event six times, adding to his rich legacy as both a driver and team owner across multiple series and platforms.
Details for Fans and Participants at the 2026 Event
The 40th running of the Chili Bowl Nationals will take place under the roof of the SageNet Center in Tulsa, with the event powered by NOS Energy Drink. Fans unable to attend in person can watch every race live online. Reserved seating for Monday and Tuesday is available via phone or at the event, while Pit Passes—offering general admission seating along the back straightaway—can be purchased on-site for $60 per weekday and $75 on Saturday.
For those seeking continuous updates or official information, the Chili Bowl Nationals maintains active social media accounts and an official event website providing results and news.
What Stewart’s Selection Means for the Chili Bowl Nationals
Naming Tony Stewart as Grand Marshal not only pays tribute to his storied career but also reinforces the event’s deep roots within the broader racing community. With Stewart’s presence and ongoing connection to the sport, the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals is poised to celebrate its history while inspiring future generations of dirt track and sprint car competitors and fans.
