**NASCAR Legend Tony Stewart Officially Announces His Return as Stewart–Haas Racing Team Owner with Martin Truex Jr. Joining as Co-Owner**
In a highly anticipated announcement that has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community, Tony Stewart, one of the most iconic drivers in the history of the sport, has officially confirmed his return to Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), not as a driver but as a full-fledged team owner. This announcement marks a new era for the racing powerhouse that Stewart co-founded in 2009. Alongside Stewart’s return, NASCAR veteran Martin Truex Jr. will also join the team as a co-owner, further strengthening SHR’s leadership and adding a fresh layer of experience and strategy to the team.
### A New Chapter for Stewart-Haas Racing
Stewart-Haas Racing has been a prominent fixture in NASCAR’s Cup Series for over a decade, building a legacy of success with Stewart, Kevin Harvick, and others behind the wheel. The team has earned numerous victories and championships, thanks in large part to Stewart’s leadership. However, after stepping down from his racing career in 2016, Stewart took on a more behind-the-scenes role with SHR, focusing on management and operations.
For the past several years, Stewart has concentrated on his ownership responsibilities, running the team alongside his business partner Gene Haas. But after years of reflection and planning, Stewart made the decision to return to the team in a more hands-on role, becoming even more involved in the day-to-day operations, driver relationships, and team strategies. With Truex Jr.’s addition as co-owner, Stewart-Haas Racing is poised for a new and exciting chapter.
“We’ve accomplished a lot together over the years, and now it’s time for a new chapter,” said Stewart in a statement during the official announcement. “This is a big move for SHR, and I’m excited to be able to work even closer with our drivers, crews, and sponsors. The addition of Martin as a co-owner is a game-changer. His wealth of experience and racing knowledge will make SHR an even more formidable team on and off the track.”
### The Role of Martin Truex Jr.
Martin Truex Jr.’s name is synonymous with NASCAR success. Over the years, Truex has established himself as one of the most consistent and competitive drivers in the series, with multiple race wins and a 2017 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. His experience, racing savvy, and leadership on and off the track have made him a respected figure in the NASCAR community.
Truex’s decision to transition from a full-time driver to a co-owner at SHR marks a significant moment in his career. While the 43-year-old driver is not completely stepping away from racing, his new role as co-owner will see him take on greater responsibilities in terms of team strategy, driver development, and performance analysis.
“I’ve been in NASCAR long enough to know that it’s not just about winning races but also about creating the right environment for success,” Truex said. “I’ve always admired what Tony Stewart has done with Stewart-Haas Racing, and when the opportunity came to join him as a co-owner, I knew it was a perfect fit. Tony’s passion for racing is contagious, and I’m eager to help build on SHR’s already strong foundation.”
Truex’s involvement as a co-owner adds another layer of credibility to the team. His track record as a champion and his consistent success across multiple teams make him a valuable asset in terms of both strategic decision-making and mentoring younger drivers who may join SHR in the future.
### The Impact on Stewart-Haas Racing
Stewart-Haas Racing’s recent announcement comes at a time when the NASCAR landscape is undergoing significant changes, with the introduction of new technologies, new drivers, and a shift in the sport’s popularity. With Stewart’s return and Truex Jr.’s new role, SHR aims to strengthen its competitive edge and continue being one of the most formidable teams in NASCAR.
The involvement of two highly experienced figures like Stewart and Truex will undoubtedly provide SHR with a strong leadership dynamic. Truex’s racing expertise complements Stewart’s strategic vision, creating a team that is not only focused on winning races but also on fostering a culture of excellence within the organization. Their combined experience is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team, helping SHR adapt to the ever-evolving NASCAR environment.
In addition to enhancing the team’s overall competitiveness, the new ownership structure is expected to make SHR more attractive to potential sponsors and drivers. The announcement of Stewart’s return and Truex’s involvement will likely elevate the team’s profile within the sport, leading to new opportunities for growth and development.
### A Strong Lineup of Drivers
With Stewart and Truex at the helm, SHR’s driver lineup remains as strong as ever. The team continues to field competitive drivers such as Kevin Harvick, who has been with the team since its inception, and recent additions like Aric Almirola and Chase Briscoe. Each driver brings a unique skill set to the team, and with the enhanced leadership, SHR is poised to continue competing for championships in the years to come.
Stewart’s return to a more active role also signals a renewed commitment to driver development. Under his leadership, SHR has been known for fostering young talent and providing them with the resources and support needed to succeed in the Cup Series. With Truex’s experience and guidance, SHR is expected to further strengthen its development pipeline, ensuring that the team remains competitive for the foreseeable future.
### Looking Ahead
As the 2025 NASCAR season approaches, the excitement surrounding Stewart-Haas Racing has reached a new level. The combination of Tony Stewart’s legendary career and Martin Truex Jr.’s wealth of experience promises to elevate the team to even greater heights. While both men have already achieved incredible success as drivers, their new roles as co-owners signal their unwavering commitment to the future of the sport and SHR’s continued success.
In conclusion, Tony Stewart’s return to Stewart-Haas Racing, coupled with Martin Truex Jr.’s addition as co-owner, marks a defining moment in NASCAR history. With the leadership of two of the sport’s most respected figures, SHR is ready to take on the challenges of the modern NASCAR era and continue building on its legacy of success. For fans, the excitement surrounding this new chapter for SHR is palpable, and the future of the team looks brighter than ever.