Tony Stewart Confirms Stance on Retirement: Racing Passion Trumps Retirement Rumors

Tony Stewart, the legendary three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and motorsports icon, has once again defied retirement rumors, reaffirming his commitment to racing in 2025. Despite retiring from full-time NASCAR competition in 2016, Stewart’s career has evolved into a thrilling new chapter in drag racing, where he continues to chase victories and rewrite racing history. Here’s a breakdown of his journey and unwavering stance on retirement.

1. From NASCAR Retirement to NHRA Resurgence

Stewart’s initial retirement from NASCAR in 2016 marked the end of an era. After 18 seasons, 49 Cup Series wins, and three championships, he stepped away from stock cars, citing a desire for “something different” and a grueling schedule that left little room for other pursuits . However, retirement for Stewart never meant slowing down. Instead, he transitioned to NHRA Top Fuel drag racing, a discipline he embraced alongside his wife, NHRA star Leah Pruett.

In 2024, Stewart took over Pruett’s Top Fuel seat as she stepped back to start a family, and he immediately made waves. By 2025, he clinched his first NHRA Top Fuel win at the 4-Wide Nationals in Las Vegas, becoming the first driver to win races in both NASCAR and NHRA Top Fuel . His success continued with a Rookie of the Year title in 2024 and a solid standing in the 2025 championship race .

2. “Too Lazy for a Real Job”: Stewart’s Irresistible Confession

When asked about retirement plans, Stewart delivered his signature blend of humor and candor: “I’d think about it, but I’m too lazy to find a real job.” Behind the joke lies a deeper truth—racing remains his lifeblood. He emphasized, “I do it because I want to… I still wake up every day with that drive to go to the racetrack” .

Stewart’s perspective is shaped by his family’s racing legacy. His father, Nelson Stewart, still races at 86, leading Tony to quip, “Genetically, I’ve got 30 more years in me” . This relentless passion fuels his refusal to retire, even as he navigates the demands of a 12,000-horsepower dragster capable of 330 mph in under four seconds.

3. A New Chapter: NHRA Dominance and Future Goals

Stewart’s NHRA career is more than a post-NASCAR hobby—it’s a competitive mission. In 2025, he returns to the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, building on his 2024 rookie success. His goals are clear: “I’m here to win. If I didn’t think I could, I wouldn’t be doing this” .

Beyond driving, Stewart mentors young racers through team ownership and remains involved in motorsports management. His team, Tony Stewart Racing, and his role in developing drag racing talent highlight his commitment to the sport’s future .

4. Criticism of NASCAR and Embracing New Challenges

While thriving in NHRA, Stewart hasn’t shied away from critiquing NASCAR’s direction. He lambasted the organization for creating “internal roadblocks,” such as complicating Kyle Larson’s Indy 500-Coca-Cola 600 double attempt, and lamented declining fan engagement . His frustration with NASCAR’s evolution contrasts sharply with his enthusiasm for NHRA’s accessibility and adrenaline-driven culture.

5. Legacy Beyond Retirement

Stewart’s career is unparalleled:

Only driver to win championships in IndyCar and NASCAR .
First to claim titles under NASCAR’s Winston, Nextel, and Sprint formats .
Historic crossover success in NHRA, adding to his USAC, SRX, and IROC accolades .

At 53, Stewart isn’t chasing legacy—he’s chasing joy. “I’ll quit when it stops making me happy,” he declares . With a 2025 NHRA season ahead and no signs of slowing, “Smoke” continues to prove that retirement is a concept for others, not for him.

Conclusion: The Unretired Legend

Tony Stewart’s story transcends traditional retirement narratives. His journey from NASCAR champion to NHRA trailblazer underscores a lifelong dedication to speed, competition, and reinvention. As he gears up for another NHRA season, fans can rest assured: Tony Stewart’s finish line is nowhere in sight.

For further details, explore sources like NHRA updates and his candid interviews on the Rubbin’ is Racing podcast.