Tony Stewart, the renowned race car driver, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2026 Chili Bowl Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma, recognizing his profound influence and history in motorsports. The Tony Stewart Chili Bowl Grand Marshal appointment celebrates his career achievements and longstanding role as an ambassador in racing.
Racing Legend Returns to Honorary Role in Tulsa
Stewart, hailing from Columbus, Indiana, holds a place on racing’s figurative Mount Rushmore with a storied resume that includes winning the USAC Triple Crown, claiming Chili Bowl championships in 2002 and 2007, and securing titles in NASCAR, IndyCar, NHRA, and SRX. His involvement across multiple racing disciplines has given him a unique status among drivers, fans, and organizers alike.
In 2026, the Chili Bowl Nationals, which touts itself as the World’s Greatest Midget Race, will honor Stewart’s contributions by naming him Grand Marshal during its milestone 40th running. This return to Tulsa shines a spotlight on his dynamic career and deep ties to the event and dirt track racing overall.
Legacy and Influence at the Chili Bowl
Tony Stewart’s dedication to the Chili Bowl stretches beyond his two championship victories. Over 14 appearances, he has started in a dozen A-Feature main events, achieved three podium finishes, landed four top-five placements, and earned seven top-ten results. His last main event appearance dates back to 2013, but his impact continued through years as part of the track preparation crew, collaborating with figures like Brad Chandler, Steve Hahn, Matt Ward, and Martin Edwards to keep the racing surface at its best.
The importance of Stewart’s contributions is underscored by event co-founder Emmett Hahn, who remarked,
“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,”
stated Chili Bowl co-founder, Emmett Hahn.
“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.”
Achievements as Driver, Owner, and Ambassador
Beyond his Chili Bowl triumphs, Stewart’s accolades include 14 USAC owner titles, nine championships in the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, and four titles in the All Star Circuit of Champions TQ Midgets Series. He has also amassed numerous significant wins in Sprint Car racing’s top events, winning the Knoxville Nationals 12 times. Since 2004, Stewart has owned Eldora Speedway, with his team capturing the King’s Royal on six occasions. His wide-ranging roles—driver, owner, ambassador, and even crew member—demonstrate his lasting influence on motorsports.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Chili Bowl
Naming Tony Stewart the 2026 Chili Bowl Grand Marshal is not only a tribute to his racing excellence but also reflects the event’s appreciation for individuals who connect racing communities and foster the sport’s growth. As the 40th edition approaches, Stewart’s presence is expected to inspire both competitors and fans, highlighting a milestone moment in the history of the Chili Bowl Nationals and continuing his tradition of shaping American motorsports.
