Tony Stewart shares his feelings on NHRA legend John Force


Tony Stewart, three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, spoke about NHRA icon John Force, reflecting on the 16-time Funny Car champion's legacy, his influence and his difficult but necessary decision to step away from racing.

last week, John Force officially announced his retirement of the formal races after a historic career of 46 years. He is considered one of the greatest drag racers of all time, a 16-time NHRA and AHRA Funny Car Champion, and a 22-time champion car owner.

When Force announced his retirement, Tony Stewart, who has spent time racing alongside him in the NHRA paddock, didn't mince words when describing what Force means to the sport and what makes him so unique in a recent interview with Bob Pockrass.

“I think as disappointing as it is for everybody, I mean we all understand what the circumstances are and why and we appreciate everything he's done for motorsport as a whole. I wasn't even into drag racing and I knew who John Force was and I was a big fan of John,” Stewart told Pockrass.

“You get a chance to run around the guy and be in the box with him and get to know him before he gets hurt … I don't know that anybody can emulate that. John just has a unique personality. I mean, he's really a larger-than-life personality. That's the only way to describe him.” Stewart continued.

John Force announced his retirement via a video shared on John Hunt Racing's official X account. He finished his illustrative career with 157 national event wins and 16 Funny Car championships.

'He's got to enjoy what he's building': Tony Stewart insists John Force is enjoying his life after retirement

The 76-year-old Force has not raced since suffering a severe brain injury following a terrifying crash during the NHRA Virginia Nationals in June 2024. He is still recovering from the effects of his severe injuries, which ultimately ended his racing career.

In the aforementioned interview, Tony Stewart shed light on the importance of Force taking time to enjoy the life and legacy he has built. With a large family, countless accomplishments and a career that transcends the NHRA stage, Stewart believes Force deserves to embrace the personal side of life as much as the competitive side.

“He's still on the road to recovery and it's a long road and at his age it's not easy, but he's doing the work, he's working hard. But he needs to enjoy what he's building and now he has a great family and grandkids and he needs to celebrate and enjoy that,” the former NASCAR team owner said.

NASCAR legend Tony Stewart he has also had a successful career in NHRA drag racing. He earned his first career Top Fuel win at the 2025 NHRA 4-Wide Nationals in Las Vegas and ended up securing the 2025 regular-season championship. Now he's likely to turn his seat over to his wife, Leah Pruett, next season.