Leah Pruettâs Next Move with Tony Stewart Could Redefine Racing History

In a stunning twist that has the motorsport world buzzing, Leah Pruett, one of NHRAâs most formidable female racers, has dropped a bombshell hint about her future behind the wheelâpotentially altering the trajectory of her career and her husband Tony Stewartâs role in their high-octane family saga. After stepping away from competitive racing in late 2024 to embrace motherhood with NASCAR legend Tony Stewart, Pruett welcomed their son, Dominic James Stewart, on November 17, 2024. Now, just months into her hiatus, her recent comments at Gainesville Raceway have reignited speculation about a comeback that could shake up the drag racing scene.

Pruett, a multi-time champion who clinched a career-best third-place finish in the NHRA standings before her break, stunned fans when she chose family over the racetrack. Yet, her latest statementââIâm a Dodge mom⊠my heart says Iâll be back in a race carââreveals a fire still burning beneath her new role as a mother. Itâs not just a casual remark; itâs a declaration of intent, laced with her unbreakable bond to racing and her Dodge-powered legacy. While she admits thereâs no set timeline, her words signal a return that could redefine what it means to balance motherhood and motorsport greatness.

The timing of her departure was nothing short of cinematic. Hours before the 2024 NHRA Finals, Pruett gave birth, handing the keys to her 11,000-horsepower Top Fuel dragster to Stewart, who stepped in for his rookie NHRA season. The NASCAR Hall of Famer didnât disappoint, finishing ninth in the standings, snagging the NHRA Rookie of the Year award, and proving his versatility with two final-round appearances and four semifinal finishes. Meanwhile, Tony Stewart Racing locked in a multi-year deal with Dodge and Stellantis, ensuring the teamâs stabilityâand setting the stage for Pruettâs potential return.

Behind the scenes, Pruett hasnât been idle. While swapping fire suits for baby blankets, sheâs stayed deeply entrenched in the teamâs operations, fine-tuning strategies and mentoring the Top Fuel crew. âSheâs not sitting on her hands,â Stewart praised, marveling at her ability to juggle motherhood with a pivotal role in their racing empire. Pruett herself emphasized her commitment, revealing sheâs tackled specific projects to stay sharp: âIâve kept myself busy on purpose so when I jump back in, Iâm even more equipped.â Her dedication hints at a comeback thatâs not just about reclaiming her seatâitâs about returning stronger than ever.

Stewart, ever the supportive partner, has made it crystal clear: the dragster is hers. âThat race car is her race car,â he insisted, vowing to step aside the moment sheâs readyâtears or not. This isnât just a seat swap; itâs a testament to their shared vision for Tony Stewart Racing, built around Pruettâs passion and prowess. Yet, her journey back wonât be easy. Battling Hashimotoâs thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition that complicates her health and hormone levels, Pruett faces unique challenges. Still, her resilience shines through, inspiring fans and proving that women in motorsports can conquer both the track and the trials of family life.
As the NHRA awaits her return, Pruettâs story is a gripping narrative of grit, love, and legacy. Whether itâs next season or beyond, one thing is certain: when Leah Pruett roars back, sheâll rewrite the rules of the game.