OFFICIAL CONFIRMED: Tony Stewart & Martin Truex Jr. Shock NASCAR World by Forming Stewart-Truex Racing Alliance – Two Explosive Statements Target 2026 Championship and Vow to “Break the Long-Standing Order” Dominating the Sport!
In one of the most seismic moves in NASCAR history, Tony Stewart and Martin Truex Jr. have officially joined forces to create Stewart-Truex Racing, a powerhouse alliance that will compete full-time in the 2026 Cup Series season. The partnership, announced in a joint press release on January 16, 2026, not only reunites two of the sport’s most accomplished and respected figures but comes with two bold, championship-or-busting statements that have already sent shockwaves through the garage and fanbase alike.
Stewart, the three-time Cup champion and co-founder of the now-defunct Stewart-Haas Racing, will serve as co-owner and strategic leader. Truex Jr., the 2017 champion and one of the most consistent performers of the past decade, will drive the No. 19 Toyota Camry, carrying the iconic Bass Pro Shops and TRD sponsorships into the new venture. The team will field a single car in 2026 with plans to expand to two entries by 2027, utilizing technical alliances with Joe Gibbs Racing for engines and engineering support.
But it’s the two accompanying statements that have truly set the NASCAR world on fire.
Statement 1 (from Tony Stewart): “We’re not here to participate – we’re here to dominate. The sport has been controlled by the same two or three organizations for too long. It’s time to break the long-standing order and prove championships can still be won by those who refuse to play by the old rules.”
Statement 2 (from Martin Truex Jr.): “2026 isn’t about rebuilding – it’s about reclaiming. I’ve won a title before, but I’ve never had a team built this way: no politics, no excuses, just pure racing. Tony and I are coming for the championship – and anyone standing in the way better be ready.”
The statements are a direct shot across the bow at Hendrick Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing, the two juggernauts that have dominated the Cup Series for nearly two decades. With Hendrick’s four-car armada and Gibbs’ relentless consistency, the “big two” have won 14 of the last 18 championships. Stewart and Truex are openly calling for an end to that era, positioning their new alliance as a rebel force determined to restore balance and competitiveness to NASCAR.
The reaction has been immediate and intense. Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement. #StewartTruexRacing and #BreakTheOrder trended globally, with fans divided between excitement and skepticism. “Finally someone’s willing to challenge Hendrick & Gibbs – this could be electric!” one post read, while another cautioned: “Big talk – let’s see if they can back it up on track.” Drivers weighed in quickly: Kyle Larson posted a simple thumbs-up emoji, Denny Hamlin wrote “Game on,” and even retired stars like Kevin Harvick commented: “This is what NASCAR needs – real competition, real fire.”
The alliance makes strategic sense. Stewart brings ownership experience, championship pedigree, and a reputation for building winning teams. Truex Jr. brings elite driving talent, consistency, and a massive fan following. Toyota’s support through TRD ensures top-tier equipment, while the single-car focus in year one allows the team to refine its identity before expanding.
But the real buzz is around the statements. “Break the long-standing order” has become an instant rallying cry for fans tired of Hendrick-Gibbs dominance. “Reclaiming” signals Truex’s hunger to add another title to his resume – and do it outside the Gibbs umbrella that defined his career.
NASCAR officials have welcomed the new team, with a spokesperson saying: “Competition is what drives our sport forward. We look forward to seeing Stewart-Truex Racing on track in 2026.” Behind the scenes, however, insiders report tension: the “big two” are said to be quietly concerned about losing market share and sponsor attention to a new challenger with star power.
As testing for the 2026 rules package approaches, Stewart-Truex Racing enters as an immediate threat. With Truex behind the wheel and Stewart calling the shots, the team has the talent, resources, and attitude to challenge for wins – and perhaps even the championship.
The sport’s old guard has been put on notice. The order is about to be tested. And if Stewart and Truex deliver on their words, NASCAR’s power structure may never look the same again.
