Fiery, outspoken, and fearless. These are a few qualities that accurately describe Tony Stewart back when he was competing in NASCAR. Embodying the ultimate ‘bad boy’ persona, the Indiana native was also called ‘Smoke’. Why? Because of his hot temper and aggressive driving style. The veteran racer has been through it all, from pit road confrontations to championship triumphs. But he now trades his rebel image to embrace his newfound responsibilities of fatherhood.

Stewart has evolved over the years, not just as a racecar driver, but also in his personal life. The birth of his son Dominic James Stewart has been instrumental in the change in perspective. Moreover, it has gone on to reshape his priorities.

Tony Stewart is enjoying life as a parent

Tony Stewart was quite a polarizing figure in the NASCAR community, especially in his prime. Many remember his fiery temperament, resulting in clashes with Jeff Gordon and Matt Kenseth on the track. Plus, who can forget his infamous altercations with Joey Logano in 2013? However, much of that is in the past, as ‘Smoke’ is now looking for a fresh start in life. He finds a new purpose in fatherhood after being one of the toughest figures on the racetrack.

In an emotional interview with WESH 2, Tony Stewart candidly said, “This point in my life, to wake up every day and when I see Dominic, I know every day there will be a little change from the day before, and that’s what I look forward to every day when I wake up. Literally, the clock stops. When you see him and he smiles, it’s like the clock stops and nothing else in the world is happening.”

Like any parent, the 53-year-old wants a positive influence in his son’s life, and while he might be a work in progress, Stewart is determined to lead by example. His redemption arc is similar to what Kevin Harvick went through after the birth of his son, Keelan. His fiery temper was legendary. But the Californian changed his ways after reflecting on how his actions might affect his son in the future. It’s a thought that crosses Tony Stewart’s mind, and he said, “The important thing for me as a father now is to sit there and explain to [Dominic] why that wasn’t the right thing to do.”

Stewart, along with Leah Pruett became parents on November 17th, 2024. ‘Smoke’ was in Pomona, California, competing in the NHRA Finals when his wife went into labor in Phoenix, Arizona. The veteran racer flew back to witness his son’s birth in true Tony Stewart fashion. Later, he returned to compete at the National Hot Rod Association race.

While the 53-year-old is seeing significant personal growth after the birth of his son, some things just don’t change, do they?

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Stewart praises Leah Pruett for her parenting skills

Tony Stewart couldn’t be more proud of his wife. The Indiana native tied the knot with Leah Pruett in November 2021, and the couple decided to start a family soon after. In light of the newfound responsibilities, the professional drag racer had to step back from her NHRA career to give good care to her son, and the 53-year-old replaced her on the track.

Since then, ‘Smoke’ has secured two wins in the Top Alcohol Dragster category, and reached five finals. However, he gave Pruett credit where it’s due, saying, “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.”

Revealing how they divide the parenting responsibilities, Stewart said, “Leah has been amazing through it. The same intensity she has as a racecar driver, she’s brought that into motherhood as well. She’s learned so much, so quick. She does a great job with Dominic, I just kind of stay out of the way. We have help, we wanted to make sure we weren’t going to be doing the wrong things so we have help in the house. I’ve learned from him that I just kind of keep my distance and stay out of the way while they are learning with each other.”

Parenthood has undoubtedly left a mark on Tony Stewart, who aims to be the best father figure he can be for his son. The veteran will want to leave a lasting legacy that Dominic James Stewart can look back on and be proud of in the future. With Leah Pruett by his side, the three-time Cup Series winner will feel he has all the support he needs to navigate this next chapter of their lives.

Stewart has faced many challenges in his racing career, but this might be the biggest one he will ever undertake.