Tony Stewart, the motorsports icon known as “Smoke,” has been chosen as the grand marshal for the upcoming Chili Bowl Nationals at the Tulsa Expo Center. The selection places Stewart and his remarkable legacy at the forefront of one of dirt racing’s most storied events, highlighting his ongoing influence on both the Chili Bowl and the greater world of motorsports.
Stewart’s Enduring Mark on the Chili Bowl
Though Tony Stewart has not competed at the Chili Bowl Midget Nationals for years, his impact on this annual event remains profound. Stewart, who earned the nickname “Smoke” during his illustrious racing career, will be honored in front of fans and peers at the championship Saturday—a fitting acknowledgement of his past victories and broad appeal among both NASCAR and dirt track enthusiasts.
The three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion’s credentials at the Chili Bowl are legendary. Stewart has won the prestigious Golden Driller trophy twice, in 2002 and 2007, and has qualified for the A-Main a remarkable twelve times out of fourteen attempts. Over that period, he has accumulated three podium finishes, four top-five performances, and seven top-ten results, underscoring his long-standing status as a favorite in the field.
Chili Bowl co-owner Emmett Hahn reflected on Stewart’s enduring contributions, 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 … rebuild the connection between dirt track and NASCAR fans. He’s an ambassador to our sport at more levels than anyone; 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-owner, Chili Bowl Nationals
Stewart’s involvement as grand marshal will be a tribute to his unique role in bridging communities within motorsport, as well as a celebration of his success at the Tulsa Expo Center. Announcements across official channels and social media have brought extra attention to his selection, further proof of his enduring appeal and relevance.
Contributions On and Off the Track
Despite stepping away from the driver’s seat—most recently to allow his wife, Leah Pruett, to compete full-time in drag racing—Tony Stewart has maintained a central role within the Chili Bowl and wider racing circles. The 54-year-old continues to lend his expertise to the event’s track preparation crew, collaborating closely with Brad Chandler, Steve Hahn, Matt Ward, and Martin Edwards to ensure the competition’s high standards are met each year.
Beyond his Chili Bowl participation, Stewart’s lifelong dedication to sprint car racing shines through numerous team and owner accomplishments, including 14 USAC owner titles, nine World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series crowns, and four major victories in the All-Star Circuit of Champions TQ Midgets Series. His hands-on involvement along every step of the racing process reinforces why he remains such a respected and influential figure at the event.
Anticipation for the 40th Chili Bowl Nationals
With the 40th edition of the Chili Bowl Nationals approaching, anticipation among fans is palpable. Stewart’s appointment underscores the event’s rich connection to its legends and signals the continuing excitement surrounding dirt track racing in the United States. As countless fans prepare to descend on the Tulsa Expo Center, Stewart’s role not only offers a nod to the event’s past but also excitement for what’s ahead.
The presence of figures like Stewart alongside emerging talents ensures the Chili Bowl keeps evolving while respecting its traditions. His impact this year will be felt both in ceremonial responsibilities and in energizing the racing community.
The Next Chapter for Tony Stewart Racing
Stewart’s selection as grand marshal comes amid a period of renewed growth for his competitive operations. Tony Stewart Racing is poised for a high-profile 2026, with the team continuing to expand its reach and influence under his leadership. Leah Pruett, an elite competitor in the NHRA top fuel class and the centerpiece of the team’s drag racing program, returns to full-time competition this season. Her impressive track record—featuring twelve top fuel wins and a series of championship challenges—bolsters the team’s stature and ambitions.
Alongside Pruett, Rico Abreu, the reigning 2025 High Limit Racing champion, brings added dynamism and crossover appeal to the organization’s sprint car initiatives. Abreu’s aggressive presence and proven track record are expected to generate attention and drive results, contributing to a competitive environment that stretches from the drag strip to the dirt oval.
Pruett and Abreu collectively embody Stewart’s philosophy of fostering top-tier performance and adaptability across all disciplines. With Stewart himself maintaining a hands-on approach, Tony Stewart Racing enters the new season as one of the most formidable and multifaceted teams in American motorsports.
Legacy and Future Implications
Stewart’s recognition as grand marshal at the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals cements his legacy as one of motorsport’s greatest ambassadors and influencers. His ability to connect with fans, mentor rising competitors, and lead successful teams has set him apart, making the focus on him this year both timely and richly deserved. The event is expected to draw record crowds, inspired in part by the return and celebration of such a storied figure.
As the nation’s dirt track racing spotlight returns to Tulsa, Stewart’s active participation both on stage and behind the scenes hints that his involvement in shaping the future of the Chili Bowl—and the broader motorsports world—remains as strong as ever. Motorsport followers and fans will undoubtedly be watching Tony Stewart and his team closely as the next chapter in his iconic racing journey unfolds at the legendary Chili Bowl Nationals.
🚨𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬🚨
Tony Stewart Named Grand Marshal Of The 40th Chili Bowl Nationals Powered by NOS Energy!
Find out more at https://t.co/Mk3GqSGsST pic.twitter.com/MC1qTRwxWj
— Chili Bowl Nationals (@cbnationals) January 5, 2026
