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Tony Stewart and Leah Pruett Announce the Death of Their Baby
April 15, 2025 — Mooresville, North Carolina
In a heartbreaking announcement that has left the motorsport community in shock, NASCAR legend Tony Stewart and NHRA drag racing star Leah Pruett have confirmed the tragic death of their newborn baby. The couple, known for their competitive spirits on the racetrack and their strong, united front off it, shared the devastating news through a somber statement released via Stewart-Haas Racing’s official social media channels on Tuesday morning.
“It is with the heaviest hearts that we share the passing of our beautiful son, Levi Michael Stewart,” the statement began. “He was born prematurely on April 8, 2025, and despite the incredible efforts of the medical team at Charlotte Medical Center’s NICU, our little warrior passed away peacefully in our arms on April 14.”
The couple had kept their pregnancy relatively private, only revealing they were expecting earlier this year during a quiet Instagram post in January that featured Leah cradling her small baby bump beside a classic dragster in their garage. The post was met with joy from fans and fellow racers alike, many celebrating the next chapter for one of motorsport’s most high-profile couples.
But over the past week, rumors had swirled among insiders that something was wrong. Leah, who had stepped back from racing duties after the first NHRA event of the season, had been noticeably absent from social media. Tony had skipped public appearances, including a Hall of Fame fundraiser in Indianapolis and a NASCAR veterans panel he was scheduled to headline.
Now, the silence has turned into sorrow.
A Sudden Medical Emergency
According to sources close to the family, Leah was rushed to the hospital on the night of April 7 after experiencing severe complications during her third trimester. Though medical personnel were able to stabilize her, she went into labor the following morning — nearly six weeks ahead of schedule.
Baby Levi was born at just 34 weeks, weighing 4 pounds, 2 ounces. Doctors initially believed he had a strong chance of survival, and Tony was reportedly by Leah’s side during the delivery. But within 48 hours, complications began to arise. A pulmonary condition, followed by a severe bacterial infection, left the infant’s condition “extremely critical.”
“They fought. All three of them fought like hell,” said a close family friend, who requested anonymity. “But Levi was just too small, too fragile. His lungs couldn’t sustain him. It was absolutely devastating to witness.”
Private Grief in a Public Life
Tony Stewart, 53, and Leah Pruett, 36, married in November 2021 after a whirlwind romance sparked by a shared love of racing and speed. Over the years, they’ve built what many fans saw as the ideal racing power couple — blending Stewart’s decorated legacy in NASCAR and IndyCar with Pruett’s dominance in NHRA drag racing.
Behind the scenes, however, they’ve also dealt with struggles. Leah previously opened up in a 2023 podcast about a miscarriage she suffered early in their marriage, describing it as “one of the most soul-crushing experiences” of her life. The couple had turned to IVF treatments in 2024, with Leah crediting Tony’s “unwavering support and humor” as what kept her strong.
In their statement today, they referenced that journey.
“This child was our miracle. After years of heartbreak and hope, Levi was the answer to countless prayers,” the couple wrote. “We only had a short time with him, but those moments will be etched into our hearts forever.”
The statement ended with a plea for privacy as they grieve: “We kindly ask for space and understanding as we navigate this unbearable loss. We appreciate the love and support, and we will share more when we are ready.”
Outpouring of Support from the Racing World
The announcement has sparked an emotional response from across the racing community. NASCAR Cup Series drivers displayed black armbands during Tuesday’s practice sessions in Martinsville, and NHRA officials confirmed a moment of silence would be observed before the weekend’s Gatornationals.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. posted on X (formerly Twitter): “My heart breaks for Smoke and Leah. No words can comfort that kind of pain, but please know the entire racing family is with you.”
Fellow drag racer Brittany Force, a close friend of Leah, shared a photo of the two women holding hands during a previous race, captioned, “You are not alone. We love you and are holding you in our hearts.”
Even international motorsports figures chimed in. Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton reposted the couple’s announcement with a heart emoji and the words, “Sending all my love and strength.”
What Comes Next
There is no word yet on when either Stewart or Pruett will return to their professional responsibilities. Leah had planned to race in select NHRA events this summer, while Stewart had been involved in ongoing efforts to expand his SRX (Superstar Racing Experience) series. Insiders say those plans are likely to be paused indefinitely.
A private memorial service for baby Levi is being planned in Indiana, where both Tony and Leah have family. The couple is also reportedly setting up a charitable fund in Levi’s name to support families dealing with neonatal loss and complications.
“This is the hardest thing we’ve ever faced,” the statement concluded. “But Levi’s life, though brief, had purpose. He brought us closer together, he made us parents, and he taught us a love so deep, we didn’t know we were capable of feeling it.”
As fans and colleagues continue to send prayers and condolences, one thing is clear — Levi Michael Stewart, though with us for only six days, has left a profound impact on two of racing’s brightest stars and the community that stands behind them.
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