At 53 years old, Tony Stewart shows no signs of slowing down or stepping away from the sport he loves. Although Stewart-Haas Racing—his longtime NASCAR team—shut down operations following the 2024 season, the three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion isn’t ready to say goodbye to stock car racing altogether. Instead, Stewart has shifted his focus to other aspects of life, such as his growing involvement in NHRA drag racing and time with his family. Despite this change of pace, Stewart has made it clear that his heart still lies with NASCAR, and he’s looking forward to reconnecting with the sport.
During a recent guest spot on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Stewart confirmed he’s planning a return to the NASCAR scene—not necessarily as a competitor or owner, but certainly as an engaged presence.
“I’m definitely planning on coming back to NASCAR races,” Stewart shared. “Being in the NASCAR Hall of Fame gives me access to a hard card, which lets me attend events. As long as that remains valid, I’m going to make use of it. I genuinely want to come back and visit with everyone.”
For Stewart, it’s the people behind the scenes that have left a lasting impact and made NASCAR so meaningful. While the racing action and competition were vital parts of his career, it’s the relationships and friendships built along the way that he cherishes most.
“What I miss the most about NASCAR are the people,” he said. “The connections I made, the camaraderie, and the shared experiences with everyone in the sport—those are the memories that stick with me. I’m really looking forward to being back around that atmosphere.”
Stewart hasn’t been shy in the past about voicing his concerns regarding the direction NASCAR was heading, especially during his tenure as a team co-owner. At times, he criticized the sanctioning body’s decisions and policies, expressing dissatisfaction with how things were managed. However, in his latest comments, Stewart seemed to reflect on the sport with greater fondness and a sense of nostalgia, suggesting that time and distance may have softened some of his earlier frustrations.
Much of that renewed appreciation could be credited to his recent success in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). Stewart has embraced drag racing in recent years and is even married to Leah Pruett, a prominent NHRA driver. Just last weekend, Stewart earned his first Top Fuel win—a milestone that clearly reignited old competitive flames.
Speaking about that victory, Stewart said the thrill of the win brought back powerful memories of his NASCAR achievements.
“I was really excited to win that race for myself and for the team,” he explained. “But once the team joined me in celebration, it took me right back to a special memory from 2009. That was the year we launched Stewart-Haas Racing, and I remember winning the All-Star Race at Charlotte. Getting to victory lane then felt incredible, and that same feeling came rushing back to me this weekend.”
That connection between past and present success underscores Stewart’s enduring passion for motorsports. While he may be more focused on drag racing today, NASCAR still holds a meaningful place in his life—and he’s eager to stay involved in some capacity.
As of now, Stewart hasn’t clarified what his return to NASCAR will look like. It’s unclear whether he’ll explore opportunities in broadcasting, take on an advisory or mentoring role, or even get involved with another team. What is certain, however, is his enthusiasm for reconnecting with the NASCAR world.
Whether he’s standing on pit road, catching up with old colleagues, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of race day, Stewart’s presence alone will be a welcome return for many within the NASCAR community. Despite stepping away from day-to-day team operations, his influence on the sport remains strong, and his desire to give back—or simply be part of the environment again—is something longtime fans and fellow insiders can appreciate.
In the end, Stewart’s recent comments and reflections show a man who, despite stepping into new chapters of his life, still carries a deep bond with NASCAR. His legacy as a champion, team owner, and personality continues to shape the sport—and with his planned return to races, that legacy looks set to grow even more.
