Leah Pruett’s Next Move with Tony Stewart Could Redefine Racing History
In a stunning twist that has the motorsport world buzzing, Leah Pruett, one of NHRA’s most formidable female racers, has dropped a bombshell hint about her future behind the wheel—potentially altering the trajectory of her career and her husband Tony Stewart’s 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 statement—“I’m a Dodge mom… my heart says I’ll be back in a race car”—reveals a fire still burning beneath her new role as a mother. It’s not just a casual remark; it’s a declaration of intent, laced with her unbreakable bond to racing and her Dodge-powered legacy. While she admits there’s 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 didn’t 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 team’s stability—and setting the stage for Pruett’s potential return.
Behind the scenes, Pruett hasn’t been idle. While swapping fire suits for baby blankets, she’s stayed deeply entrenched in the team’s operations, fine-tuning strategies and mentoring the Top Fuel crew. “She’s not sitting on her hands,” Stewart praised, marveling at her ability to juggle motherhood with a pivotal role in their racing empire. Pruett herself emphasized her commitment, revealing she’s tackled specific projects to stay sharp: “I’ve kept myself busy on purpose so when I jump back in, I’m even more equipped.” Her dedication hints at a comeback that’s not just about reclaiming her seat—it’s about returning stronger than ever.
Stewart, ever the supportive partner, has made it crystal clear: the dragster is hers. “That race car is her race car,” he insisted, vowing to step aside the moment she’s ready—tears or not. This isn’t just a seat swap; it’s a testament to their shared vision for Tony Stewart Racing, built around Pruett’s passion and prowess. Yet, her journey back won’t be easy. Battling Hashimoto’s 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, Pruett’s story is a gripping narrative of grit, love, and legacy. Whether it’s next season or beyond, one thing is certain: when Leah Pruett roars back, she’ll rewrite the rules of the game.
