Childhood and Education Journey of Tony Stewart in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Tony Stewart. From birth to education, explore key events.

Tony Stewart, nicknamed "Smoke", is a semi-retired American professional stock car racing driver and former NASCAR team co-owner of Stewart-Haas Racing. He is a four-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, winning two as a driver, one as owner/driver in 2011, and one as an owner in 2014. He currently competes in the NHRA.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

May 20, 1971: Birth of Tony Stewart

On May 20, 1971, Anthony Wayne Stewart, nicknamed "Smoke", was born. He later became a professional stock car racing driver and NASCAR team co-owner.

1999: Start of Consecutive Sprint Cup Starts Streak

In 1999 Tony Stewart started a streak of 521 consecutive Sprint Cup starts at the Daytona 500 which would come to an end after he broke his leg in 2013.

July 8, 2008: Stewart Released from Joe Gibbs Racing, Joins Haas CNC Racing

On July 8, 2008, Tony Stewart was released from his contract with Joe Gibbs Racing and announced he would be moving to Haas CNC Racing to drive a Haas Chevrolet, with sponsorships from Office Depot and Old Spice, taking half ownership of the team which was renamed Stewart-Haas Racing.

July 2008: Stewart Partners with Gene Haas to Form Stewart-Haas Racing

In July 2008, Tony Stewart reached an agreement with car owner Gene Haas, creating a co-ownership partnership known as Stewart-Haas Racing, which would be effective in 2009.

August 15, 2008: Ryan Newman Signs with Stewart-Haas Racing

On August 15, 2008, Ryan Newman, also from Indiana, signed a multi-year contract to drive the second car for Stewart-Haas Racing, sponsored by the U.S. Army.

2009: Stewart-Haas Racing Officially Forms

In 2009, Stewart-Haas Racing was officially formed after Tony Stewart's departure from Joe Gibbs Racing.

October 12, 2010: Mobil 1 Announces Sponsorship Deal with Stewart-Haas Racing

On October 12, 2010, Mobil 1 announced a sponsorship deal with Stewart-Haas Racing, sponsoring Tony Stewart's car starting in 2011.

October 2, 2012: Bass Pro Shops to Co-Sponsor Stewart in 2013

On October 2, 2012, Bass Pro Shops announced that they would be a co-primary sponsor for Tony Stewart in a selected number of races for the 2013 season.

2012: Regan Smith Fills In For Dale Earnhardt Jr.

In 2012, Regan Smith drove two races in Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s car after Earnhardt was sidelined with a concussion, leading to speculation that Smith might replace Stewart after his injury in 2013.

August 5, 2013: Leg Injury in Sprint Car Crash

On August 5, 2013, while leading a sprint car race at Southern Iowa Speedway, Tony Stewart was involved in a multi-car crash that resulted in him breaking both the tibia and fibula bones in his lower right leg. He underwent surgery and was hospitalized.

August 8, 2013: Second Surgery on Broken Leg

On August 8, 2013, Tony Stewart underwent a second surgery on his broken leg, during which a metal rod was inserted into his tibia.

August 11, 2013: Max Papis Fills In

On August 11, 2013, with Tony Stewart injured, Max Papis was named as the replacement driver for the race at Watkins Glen International.

August 15, 2014: NASCAR Rule Change

On August 15, 2014, NASCAR announced a rule change requiring drivers involved in accidents to remain in their vehicles until emergency crews arrive, except in emergencies.

August 17, 2014: Jeff Burton Replaces Stewart

On August 17, 2014, Jeff Burton replaced Tony Stewart for the race at Michigan and the following race at Bristol. Stewart had a waiver to maintain Chase eligibility despite missing races.

September 24, 2014: No Indictment in Kevin Ward Jr. Death

On September 24, 2014, a grand jury declined to indict Tony Stewart on charges related to the death of Kevin Ward Jr. The District Attorney stated that videos showed no aberrational driving and that Ward was under the influence of cannabis.

2014: Kevin Harvick Joins Stewart's Team

On November 9, 2014, it was announced that Kevin Harvick would be joining Tony Stewart's team.

September 27, 2015: Plans to Retire

On September 27, 2015, it was reported that Tony Stewart planned to retire from racing after the 2016 season.

September 30, 2015: Retirement Announcement

On September 30, 2015, Tony Stewart formally announced his retirement from racing after the 2016 season. Clint Bowyer was announced as his replacement in the No. 14 car in 2017.