Tony Stewart’s Wife Leah Pruett Sacrifices NHRA Desire With 4-Word Reality Check

Leah Pruett has made her name in the NHRA Top Fuel category, with 12 career event wins and a reputation for fierce competitiveness. But in a world where drivers live for speed and adrenaline, Pruett has stepped away from the seat of her dragster. Why? “It doesn’t make sense,” she says—a decision steeped in pragmatism and selflessness.

As Pruett prepares for her new role as a mother, she remained candid about the sacrifices she’s making for her family and team, and the reasoning behind her hiatus from racing. For someone who thrives on high-octane competition, stepping back is no easy feat, but for Pruett, it’s all about prioritizing the bigger picture.

“It doesn’t make sense”: Leah Pruett’s business-first decision

In a conversation on the Mighty Mack YouTube channel, Pruett laid bare her thought process behind staying on the sidelines. Despite her undeniable urge to race, her return just didn’t add up. “I even told my crew chief…that I might run the pro event. I mean, I want to, but from a business decision, it doesn’t make sense,” Pruett said.

Her rationale? A new chassis introduced by Tony Stewart Racing during the NHRA World Finals. “Tony had a new chassis at the World Finals that they hadn’t run all year, and it did very well. It tested well in Vegas. That’s what we’re going to roll into the pro race with,” she explained. For Pruett, hopping back into the car would disrupt the team’s ability to optimize the new equipment. “It wouldn’t make sense for me to get back in my car just for me to have giggles and fun and not let the team test what they need to test.”

While Pruett’s love for the sport hasn’t wavered, her focus has shifted to the greater good of the team. The decision to sit out this season, and possibly beyond, is highly indicative of her commitment to TSR’s success. Yet, she doesn’t shy away from admitting how much she misses the thrill. “I’m itching really bad, and I’ll just have to itch some more,” she said, laughing away the pain.

Even during her break, Pruett found ways to mentally prepare for her eventual return to racing. Reflecting on her experiences throughout the 2024 season, she explained how she practiced controlling her emotions at the track. “What I found interesting throughout the season was I could get nervous or feel that excitement of driving that car, or I could turn it off,” she shared. This emotional discipline, she believes, will make her a better driver when she eventually gets back into the dragster. “I’ve never been able to try that.”

A new role as a Mom and Tony Stewart’s emotional reaction

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The 2024 season has been a transformative year for Pruett, not just professionally but personally. In November, she and Tony Stewart welcomed their son, Dominic James, marking a significant new chapter in their lives. Becoming a mother has reshaped Pruett’s perspective on racing and added a layer of complexity to her future plans.

Pruett has been open about her decision to put motherhood first, even if it means delaying her return to racing. “I think my answer to [racing in] 2025 is an unknown, but I definitely will not be starting the season,” she told Autoweek. “I want to do the best job I can being a mom before I can get back in that seat.”

Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and rookie Top Fuel racer, has stepped into Pruett’s role at TSR during her absence. His commitment to balancing racing and family life became evident on November 17, the day Dominic was born. Stewart flew from Pomona, California, to Phoenix to witness the birth of his son, then returned just hours later to compete in the NHRA Finals.

“I don’t care what happens. I won at 4:43 this morning when Leah gave birth to our son,” Stewart said after his first-round win. “She’s a way stronger woman than I am a man. I’m proud of her and love her so much for what she’s done.”

Pruett’s hiatus has also allowed her to advocate for change in the NHRA, working on policies that support pregnant drivers and those starting families. She believes this work is essential for helping others navigate similar challenges. “The new policy just allows them to have those conversations, have those thoughts rather than being forgotten,” she said.

For now, Leah Pruett’s future in racing remains uncertain, but her dedication to her family, team, and the sport itself is unwavering. Whether it’s balancing business decisions or embracing her new role as a mother, Pruett’s approach is as calculated as it is heartfelt. And while she may not be behind the wheel, her impact on the sport continues to resonate—both on and off the track.