July 16, 2025 — In a move that has left the motorsports world reeling, Tony Stewart—NASCAR legend, team owner, and NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster competitor—has announced a full-scale takeover of one of NHRA’s most iconic teams, setting the stage for what many are already calling the birth of a drag racing superpower.
The announcement came during a press conference at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, just days before the NHRA U.S. Nationals. What was expected to be a routine media appearance turned into a thunderous revelation as Stewart stepped to the mic and declared:
“We’re not just here to compete anymore. We’re here to dominate. Starting today, I’m taking the reins of Kalitta Motorsports.”
🚨 A Shocking Power Move
Kalitta Motorsports, founded by NHRA legend Connie Kalitta, has long been one of the most respected operations in drag racing. With drivers like Doug Kalitta and Shawn Langdon, the team has earned multiple Top Fuel wins and maintained a legacy of excellence.
Stewart’s acquisition of the team—renamed Stewart-Kalitta Racing—marks a seismic shift in the NHRA landscape. Not only does this solidify Stewart’s deepening commitment to drag racing, but it also signals a strategic vision that could transform the sport’s competitive dynamics.
“This isn’t just a business deal,” Stewart said. “It’s a statement. We’re bringing innovation, resources, and a winning mentality. NHRA is about to feel the heat like never before.”
🏁 From Stock Cars to Straight-Line Speed
Stewart’s transition from three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion to NHRA team owner and racer has been anything but ordinary. When he first stepped into the cockpit of a Top Alcohol Dragster in 2022, many saw it as a passion project. But insiders now admit: Tony Stewart had bigger plans all along.
His wife, Leah Pruett—an accomplished NHRA driver herself—was on hand for the announcement, standing alongside a revamped team lineup featuring not only existing Kalitta talent but also rumored new signings from Pro Stock and even international circuits.
🔥 The Future of NHRA Just Got Louder
With Stewart’s entry into ownership at this level, expect the following ripple effects across the sport:
- Driver shakeups: Multiple top-tier drivers are reportedly considering contracts with Stewart-Kalitta Racing. One insider hinted at a “blockbuster switch” coming from John Force Racing.
- Sponsorship surge: Stewart’s name alone commands massive brand attention. With Stewart-Haas Racing connections and a deep Rolodex from NASCAR, fresh money is likely to pour into NHRA paddocks.
- Fan engagement: Known for building passionate fanbases, Stewart’s move could attract NASCAR fans to NHRA events, increasing crossover interest and ticket sales.
NHRA President Glen Cromwell issued a statement shortly after the announcement, calling Stewart’s expansion “one of the most exciting developments in NHRA history.”
“Tony brings vision, intensity, and a championship pedigree. This is a win for the entire drag racing community,” Cromwell said.
⚙️ What’s Next?
Insiders say Stewart-Kalitta Racing is already building a state-of-the-art facility in North Carolina to serve as a dual-purpose HQ for their NASCAR and NHRA operations. A team of engineers from Formula E and IndyCar are said to be consulting on a new performance lab focused on Top Fuel development.
Meanwhile, Stewart remains tight-lipped about whether he’ll return to the driver’s seat full-time.
“Let’s just say I haven’t put my helmet away,” he said with a grin.
💥 Final Thoughts
Tony Stewart has never been one to follow the script. Whether it was flipping the bird at a camera, chasing championships in multiple series, or now rewriting the business model of professional drag racing—he moves boldly, and the motorsports world follows.
With his acquisition of Kalitta Motorsports, Stewart isn’t just building a team—he’s building a legacy.
And if the roar from the NHRA community is any indication, the next chapter of drag racing just hit the throttle.