Tony Stewart Reflects on His Departure as he blast NASCAR and Leaving in Damning Interview

 

Tony Stewart, a legendary figure in the world of stock car racing, has officially announced his departure from NASCAR, marking a significant transition in his storied career. During a candid appearance on the “Happy Hour” podcast hosted by fellow racer Kevin Harvick, Stewart expressed his thoughts on the current state of NASCAR and his reasons for stepping away.

With his team, Stewart-Haas Racing, winding down in preparation for the Haas Factory Team’s upcoming launch, Stewart’s exit signifies the end of an era. His impact on NASCAR, both as a driver and a team owner, is unparalleled. Over 27 years, he captured four Cup Series championships—two as a driver and two as an owner—and played a pivotal role in establishing Stewart-Haas Racing since its inception in 2009.

Reflecting on his NASCAR journey, Stewart expressed nostalgia and a sense of finality. “It’s honestly, especially in the last two to three weeks, it’s starting to feel exactly like a year ago when we knew you were coming

to the end of your career,” he shared. His memories of camaraderie and achievements within the sport were palpable as he recounted time spent at the shop and the relationships formed over the years.

Stewart’s decision to leave was not part of a premeditated plan; rather, it evolved alongside the significant changes occurring within the sport. “This is a time where things are drastically changing in the sport,” he noted, referencing the ongoing turmoil involving teams like 23XI and Front Row Motorsports. “It’s not a direction that I want to be a part of,” he asserted.

As Stewart prepares for life beyond NASCAR, he has found fulfillment in his pursuits within the NHRA, where he has recently started competing in the Top Fuel category. The impending arrival of his first child with wife Leah Pruett in November 2024 has further influenced his decision, prompting him to seek new opportunities.

Stewart’s outlook on NASCAR’s future remains optimistic. “The sport’s going to be healthy, it’s going to survive. It always has, it always will,” he remarked. Yet, he feels this is the right moment for him to step back. His decision reflects a broader sense of change and personal growth as he embarks on this new chapter of his life.

In conclusion, Tony Stewart’s departure from NASCAR symbolizes both an end and a beginning. With a legacy cemented in the annals of racing history, his move away from the sport paves the way for new adventures and a chance to focus on family and other racing endeavors. As fans bid farewell to “Smoke,” they do so knowing that his influence on NASCAR will be felt for years to come.