Indianapolis, IN
Tony Stewart addresses possibility of running Indianapolis 500 again
Tony Stewart may have left NASCAR, but the racing world is still dealing with his fierce and competitive nature. Last weekend, Stewart won his first career NHRA Top Fuel dragster race in Las Vegas. It was an amazing scene as the three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion continued his work as the substitute driver for his wife, Leah Pruett, as they recently started a family.
Following his massive victory in Las Vegas, Stewart was asked about the idea of a return to IndyCar for an Indianapolis 500 during a Tuesday video conference. According to Stewart, he believes making the race and having a solid showing would be realistic, but doesn’t think he has what it takes to compete.
“The last time I was in an IndyCar was 2001, so 20 plus years now,” Stewart said. “To go there and even think that I’m going to be competitive is, in my opinion, very unrealistic. Do I feel like I could make the race and have a solid showing? I do feel like I could do that, but I don’t feel like I have what it takes. These guys are so good in these cars and have such a good feel and read on what these cars are and what the car needs. I don’t feel like I would have that input to give to the team to help…to have a winning car. The only way I’m going back to the Indy 500 is if I feel I have a shot to win the Indy 500…I don’t think I’d be capable because of seat time. Just don’t think it’s in my cards.”
Many have pushed for Stewart to make one more attempt at the Indianapolis 500 after coming up short several times, but he doesn’t think it’s in the cars for him anymore. The former NASCAR owner might be competing in NHRA for the time being, but a return to the Indianapolis 500 seems very unlikely.