LEAH PRUETT Steps Away From NHRA Top Fuel to Focus on Growing Family

September 18, 2026

• LEAH PRUETT exits NHRA Top Fuel after 2026 playoffs to have second child with husband Tony Stewart, leaving door open for return. Currently third in points entering six-race playoffs at Great Lakes Nationals.
• PRUETT secured Tony Schumacher as replacement after three months negotiations. Eight-time champion returns to elite-level team, calling Tony Stewart Racing opportunity equivalent to “Yankees calling” in baseball. Schumacher holds 88 career wins.
• Championship battle intensifies as PRUETT trails leader Doug Kalitta by 43 points, second-place Shawn Langdon by 17, leading husband Stewart by 18. Best season chemistry and momentum makes timing bittersweet for departure.
• PRUETT sat 2024-2025 seasons for first child Dominic, born November 2024. Plans continued team management role and public presence during second pregnancy hiatus, refusing to call decision permanent retirement.

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