Leah Pruett’s Next Move Unveiled: Tony Stewart’s Wife Eyes Racing Return Amid Family and Health Challenges
The racing world is abuzz with speculation as Leah Pruett, one of NHRA’s most celebrated female drivers, hints at a sensational comeback after stepping away from the dragstrip in late 2024. Pruett, married to NASCAR legend Tony Stewart, shocked fans when she paused her stellar career—highlighted by a career-best third-place NHRA finish—to focus on motherhood following the birth of their son, Dominic James Stewart, on November 17, 2024. But recent revelations from the power couple suggest her hiatus might be shorter than anticipated, exposing internal team dynamics and her unyielding passion for racing.
Before her break, Pruett was a force in NHRA Top Fuel, cementing her legacy as a top-tier competitor. Her departure coincided with a cinematic twist: she gave birth mere hours before the 2024 NHRA finals, handing the reins of her Dodge Power Top Fuel dragster to Tony Stewart. The NASCAR icon didn’t disappoint, clinching ninth in the standings and the NHRA Rookie of the Year award with two final-round appearances and four semifinal runs. Behind the scenes, Pruett remained a linchpin for Tony Stewart Racing, fine-tuning strategies and staying immersed in the sport she loves. “I’ve kept busy on purpose,” she admitted during a Gainesville Raceway press conference, signaling her intent to reclaim her seat. Her playful yet profound remark—“I’m a Dodge mom”—struck a chord with fans, blending her maternal pride with her unbreakable bond to racing and Dodge, which recently extended a multi-year deal with the team.
Tony Stewart’s support has been unwavering. Stepping into Pruett’s car was a temporary gig, he insists, vowing to “gladly step out” the moment she’s ready. “That race car is hers,” he declared, emphasizing the team’s origins were built for her synergy with crew chief Matt Hagan. His rookie success aside, Stewart’s stint seems a placeholder for Pruett’s inevitable return—a sentiment echoed by her active role in the pits despite juggling diaper duties. Yet, her journey back isn’t without hurdles. Pruett battles Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that disrupts hormone production, complicating her health and racing demands. “It’s why you’ve seen me with a glucose monitor,” she explained, underscoring how this factored into her break. Starting a family safely while managing her condition was a priority, but her resolve to race burns brighter than ever.
The NHRA has felt Pruett’s absence keenly, but her fingerprints remain all over Tony Stewart Racing’s operations. Her “Dodge mom” mantra isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a promise of a comeback fueled by resilience, family support, and a multi-year Dodge partnership poised to back her return. Whether it’s 2025 or beyond, Pruett’s not done dominating the dragstrip. Fans are on edge, awaiting the official word, but her actions scream intent: she’s gearing up to roar back, health challenges and all, with Tony ready to hand over the keys. The racing world waits—will Leah Pruett’s next move redefine her legacy? One thing’s certain: she’s not leaving the driver’s seat empty for long.
