"I don’t know that I agree with all of it" - Tony Stewart makes feelings known on stepping away from NASCAR and its evolution

Former NASCAR driver and team owner Tony Stewart has voiced his feelings on the sport's evolution. The 53-year-old, who used to own the now-defunct Stewart-Haas Racing, believes he does not miss the racing aspect of NASCAR.

Stewart, a three-time Cup Series and IndyCar champion, as well as a two-time champion owner of SHR, no longer feels a strong connection to the current state of NASCAR. The Hall of Famer parted ways from the sport at the end of the 2024 season, once SHR closed its operations due to financial difficulties.

In a recent interview with Sullivan Old Time BBQ, Stewart revealed that he does not miss racing in NASCAR. However, he acknowledged that the people he worked with remain the part he misses most. Reflecting on the changes in the sport, Stewart said:

"No. I mean, the biggest part I miss is the people. The people are the part I miss. It's like anything else. Technology comes in and evolves and it changes and it's just not what it used to be when I ran it." (13:06)

Despite stepping away, Stewart acknowledged NASCAR’s resilience. He added:

"When I ran it I feel like I got in on a tail end of when it was the best. So, what they're doing now, they're doing what they're doing for the reasons they're doing it, but I don't know that I agree with all of it. But it's a sport that's going to make it a long time."

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Tony Stewart on his experiences with IndyCar, NASCAR, and stock car

In a separate interview with Inside Indiana Business, Stewart shared insights into his experiences across NASCAR, IndyCar, and stock car racing. While he admitted that each form of racing holds a special place in his heart, he noted the distinct challenges and driving styles of each discipline. He said:

"There’s something unique and special about each one; the challenges are different with all of them. It’s hard to win in any form of motor sports or sports in general. There’s always great franchises and great dynasties that are in each form of motor sports.

Stewart emphasized the pride he felt in disrupting established dynasties and creating one of his own. He noted:

"If you can be one of those people that upsets those dynasties and then creates one of your own, that’s something that you’re proud of. I loved driving an IndyCar, but I also like driving stock cars too. The driving styles are totally different."

Following his departure from NASCAR, Tony Stewart competed in NHRA Top Fuel, replacing his wife Leah Pruett for the 2024 campaign.