Tony Stewart: The Most Accomplished Eldora Speedway Owner in Racing History Becomes the Subject of New Netflix Documentary
March 8, 2025 – Netflix has just released a groundbreaking documentary on NASCAR legend Tony Stewart, chronicling his journey as a driver, team owner, and the most accomplished owner in Eldora Speedway’s storied history. The film, titled “Smoke & Dirt: The Tony Stewart Story,” takes an in-depth look at Stewart’s impact on motorsports, both on and off the track.
The documentary, which has been highly anticipated by racing fans, highlights Stewart’s fearless driving career, his passion for grassroots racing, and his transformation of Eldora Speedway into one of the most prestigious dirt tracks in the world. Featuring never-before-seen footage, exclusive interviews, and dramatic retellings of some of Stewart’s most iconic moments, the film offers an intimate and thrilling portrait of a man who has left an indelible mark on racing history.
Tony Stewart: A Racing Icon and Eldora’s Driving Force
Tony Stewart, often referred to as “Smoke,” is a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the most versatile drivers in motorsports. Over the years, he has competed in everything from stock cars and IndyCar to dirt late models and sprint cars. His ability to conquer multiple forms of racing has cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest competitors.
But Stewart’s impact goes far beyond just his own racing achievements. His ownership of Eldora Speedway has been a defining chapter in his career. Eldora, a half-mile clay oval in Rossburg, Ohio, has long been a crown jewel in dirt racing. Since purchasing the track in 2004, Stewart has turned it into one of the most prestigious dirt racing venues in the country, hosting major events like the Kings Royal, The Dream, and the Eldora Million.
Under Stewart’s ownership, Eldora became the first dirt track to host a NASCAR-sanctioned national series event in over 40 years when the NASCAR Truck Series raced there in 2013. That event alone brought national attention back to dirt racing and helped bridge the gap between grassroots and professional motorsports.
A Deep Dive Into Stewart’s Journey
The Netflix documentary traces Stewart’s career from his early days as a young racer growing up in Indiana to his rise through the ranks of USAC, IndyCar, and eventually NASCAR. The film sheds light on his aggressive driving style, his fiery personality, and the relentless passion that made him one of the most beloved and polarizing figures in racing history.
Key moments covered in Smoke & Dirt: The Tony Stewart Story include:
- His 1997 IndyCar Championship: Before becoming a NASCAR legend, Stewart won the IndyCar title, showcasing his adaptability across racing disciplines.
- His NASCAR Cup Championships (2002, 2005, 2011): The documentary explores his most iconic races, including his historic 2011 championship run, where he won five of the last ten races in the playoffs.
- His purchase and transformation of Eldora Speedway: Stewart’s dedication to preserving dirt racing traditions while modernizing the fan experience is a major focus of the film.
- The introduction of NASCAR racing to Eldora: The documentary features never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage of how Stewart convinced NASCAR officials to bring trucks to a dirt track.
- His transition to team ownership: As co-owner of Stewart-Haas Racing, he helped drivers like Kevin Harvick and Chase Briscoe achieve success in the NASCAR Cup Series.
The film doesn’t shy away from the controversies and challenges Stewart has faced, including his on-track incidents and personal struggles. It also delves into his philanthropic efforts, highlighting his commitment to giving back to the racing community and supporting young drivers.
Exclusive Interviews and Never-Before-Seen Footage
To bring Stewart’s story to life, Netflix assembled an impressive lineup of interviewees, including:
- NASCAR legends like Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Kyle Busch sharing their perspectives on Stewart’s impact on the sport.
- Dirt racing stars and track promoters who have worked with Stewart at Eldora Speedway.
- Current and former Stewart-Haas Racing drivers discussing his leadership and influence.
- Family, friends, and longtime crew chiefs who offer insight into the man behind the helmet.
Additionally, the documentary features rare behind-the-scenes footage of Stewart working at Eldora, interacting with fans, and even jumping behind the wheel for unsanctioned dirt races.
A Celebration of a True Racer’s Racer
Fans who have followed Stewart’s career will find Smoke & Dirt to be a must-watch, as it not only captures his biggest triumphs but also showcases the passion and determination that have defined his legacy. Whether it’s reliving his famous battles on NASCAR’s biggest stages or seeing how he revitalized Eldora Speedway, the documentary paints a vivid picture of what it truly means to be a racer.
For Stewart, Eldora has always been more than just a racetrack—it’s a place where he can connect with his roots and help keep dirt racing alive for future generations. This documentary serves as a love letter to not only Stewart’s career but also the sport he has dedicated his life to.
Where to Watch
“Smoke & Dirt: The Tony Stewart Story” is now streaming exclusively on Netflix, available in multiple countries with subtitles in several languages. Fans can also expect bonus behind-the-scenes content and director’s commentary in the coming weeks.
As the documentary makes its way to screens worldwide, one thing is certain—Tony Stewart’s legacy as a racer, a team owner, and the driving force behind Eldora Speedway is more secure than ever.
