In a stunning announcement that has left the entire NASCAR world reeling, Tony Stewart confirmed this morning that he and Martin Truex Jr. have officially joined forces to launch Stewart-Truex Racing (STR) – a brand-new Cup Series team that will hit the track full-time in 2026 with the No. 19 Bass Pro Shops Toyota Camry. The reveal, complete with dramatic photos of Stewart at the press conference podium and Truex alongside his future ride, was accompanied by a single, thunderous phrase from Stewart that has already become legendary:
“Done deal. The future starts now.”
The announcement ends months of speculation following the closure of Stewart-Haas Racing at the end of 2025. Instead of walking away from ownership, Stewart has doubled down – partnering with one of NASCAR’s most respected and consistent champions in Truex Jr., who brings his elite talent, massive fanbase, and championship pedigree to the new operation. The team will run a single car in 2026 with full Toyota technical support through TRD, with plans to expand to two entries by 2027.
Stewart, speaking from the TSP (Tony Stewart Performance) facility in Brownsburg, Indiana, didn’t mince words about his vision: “This isn’t a retirement. It’s a rebirth. Martin and I have one goal: win championships and prove that the old way of doing things isn’t the only way. NASCAR has been dominated by the same two or three teams for too long. We’re here to change that.”
Truex Jr., who won the 2017 title with Joe Gibbs Racing and has been a model of consistency, called the partnership “the perfect storm”: “I’ve won with the best – now I want to build something new with one of the best. Tony’s fire, my experience, Toyota’s power – we’re coming for everything in 2026.”
The photos released with the announcement tell the story visually: Stewart in a black TSP polo at the podium, eyes intense; Truex in the black-and-red Bass Pro Shops firesuit standing next to the No. 19 Camry, both men looking ready for battle. The car livery – matte black with sharp silver and red accents, mountain ridge graphics, and massive “19” on the hood – screams intimidation and intent.
The reaction has been immediate and explosive. Social media lit up within minutes. #StewartTruexRacing, #DoneDeal, and #NewEraNASCAR shot to the top trends worldwide. Fans are divided between wild excitement and cautious optimism:
“Tony + Truex + Toyota? This is going to be insane! Finally someone challenging Hendrick & Gibbs!” “Big words – let’s see if they can back it up. But damn, that car looks mean.”
Drivers and personalities weighed in quickly:
Kyle Larson (Hendrick): thumbs-up emoji + “Game on 🔥” Denny Hamlin: “This is bold. Respect.” Kevin Harvick (retired): “Smoke’s back in the game – this is what NASCAR needs.”
NASCAR officials welcomed the new entry: “We’re thrilled to see new teams and fresh competition. Stewart-Truex Racing adds star power and ambition to the grid.” But behind the scenes, the “big two” (Hendrick and Gibbs) are reportedly taking notice – both organizations have quietly accelerated simulator and aero testing in response.
The timing is critical. The 2026 rules package – reduced downforce, 50/50 ICE-electric power split, active aero – levels the playing field in theory. A strong power unit and driver like Truex could make STR an instant threat. Stewart’s ownership experience, combined with Truex’s consistency (over 500 top-10 finishes in his career), gives the team legitimate title-contending potential right out of the gate.
This is more than a new team announcement – it’s a declaration of war on the status quo. Stewart and Truex are openly challenging the monopoly of Hendrick and Gibbs, vowing to “break the old order” and prove that championships can still be won outside the established elite.
The garage is buzzing. The fans are divided. And NASCAR’s power structure just felt the ground shift.
The old era may indeed be on the verge of collapse. And Stewart-Truex Racing just threw down the gauntlet.
