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 auto racing driver and former NASCAR team co-owner. He achieved significant success in NASCAR, securing four Cup Series championships. Two wins as a driver and another as a driver/owner, plus a further owner's title demonstrate Stewart's impact on the sport as both a competitor and a team owner. Currently, he competes in the NHRA Top Fuel class, showcasing his continued passion for auto racing.

Sections (6)

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

May 20, 1971: Tony Stewart Born

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

1979: First Go Kart

In 1979, Tony Stewart got his first competitive go kart in Westport, Indiana, marking the beginning of his racing career.

November 2004: Ownership of Eldora Speedway

In November 2004, Tony Stewart became the owner of Eldora Speedway, a half-mile dirt track in New Weston, Ohio, known as "Auto Racing's Showcase Since 1954." Stewart began racing there in 1991 and continues to participate in special events.

August 5, 2013: Sprint Car Crash at Southern Iowa Speedway

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 and requiring surgery.

August 8, 2013: Second Surgery on Broken Leg

On August 8, 2013, Tony Stewart underwent a second surgery, during which a metal rod was inserted into his tibia to stabilize the broken bone, following his sprint car crash.

August 9, 2014: Death of Kevin Ward Jr.

On August 9, 2014, at Canandaigua Motorsports Park, Tony Stewart's car struck Kevin Ward Jr. during a sprint car race under caution, resulting in Ward's death due to "massive blunt trauma".

August 15, 2014: NASCAR Rule Change After Ward's Death

On August 15, 2014, NASCAR announced a rule change, following the death of Kevin Ward Jr., mandating that drivers involved in accidents must remain in their vehicles until emergency crews arrive, unless there is an emergency.

September 24, 2014: Grand Jury Declines to Indict Stewart

On September 24, 2014, a grand jury declined to indict Tony Stewart on charges related to the death of Kevin Ward Jr., with the District Attorney citing a lack of aberrational driving and Ward's impairment due to cannabis.

September 27, 2015: Retirement Plans Reported

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

September 30, 2015: Retirement Officially Announced

On September 30, 2015, Tony Stewart formally announced his retirement after the 2016 season, confirming that Clint Bowyer would replace him in the No. 14 car in 2017.

January 31, 2016: Back Injury While Dune Buggy Riding

On January 31, 2016, Tony Stewart injured his back while riding a dune buggy outside of San Diego with Greg Biffle, leading to a burst fracture in his lumbar vertebra.

2016: Retirement Confirmed

In September 30, 2015, Tony Stewart confirmed his retirement after the 2016 season.

April 2018: Settlement of Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In April 2018, the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the Ward family against Tony Stewart was settled out-of-court, just before the trial was scheduled to begin; the terms of the settlement were confidential.