Tony Stewart and Leah Pruett Rally Against Fentanyl Addiction

WASHINGTON — NASCAR icon Tony Stewart and NHRA driver Leah Pruett have shifted focus beyond racing to combat substance addiction, specifically fentanyl abuse, an epidemic that claimed the lives of countless individuals.

The couple attended a fundraising event organized by the Rayce Rudeen Foundation (RRF) in Washington, D.C., aimed at generating awareness and resources to battle fentanyl addiction. The fundraiser highlights an urgent issue as fentanyl accounts for 70% of drug overdose deaths, according to a 2020 report.

While the Tony Stewart Foundation shut its doors last season, the pair remains committed to charitable initiatives. Earlier, Pruett and Stewart partnered with Novant Health to enhance healthcare access for underprivileged children in Charlotte, with a facility expected to open in December 2025. Stewart invested $2.25 million to kickstart the project.

“Addiction is the thief of joy, health, relationships, and sometimes life. The fight against fentanyl is real,” Pruett shared on Instagram during the event. She emphasized the importance of supporting communities in destigmatizing addiction to expedite prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Pruett’s involvement in tackling drug addiction is especially notable as she manages motherhood, raising her young son, Dominic. She expressed pride in being part of a cause she believes can make a significant impact.

“I am thankful for everyone supporting the Rayce Rudeen Foundation. Their work is phenomenal, and they’re here to assist those grappling with addiction,” she said during the fundraiser.

The Rayce Rudeen Foundation was established in memory of Rayce Rudeen, who lost his life to a fentanyl overdose in June 2016. His family vowed to prevent similar tragedies, aiming to provide support and resources to those affected by addiction. The foundation embodies the spirit of resilience, dedicated to building a community free from stigma surrounding addiction.

As the evening progressed, both Stewart and Pruett shared anecdotes illustrating the far-reaching consequences of addiction, stressing the urgency of proactive measures needed to address this crisis.

Pruett’s recent undertakings, while balancing her racing commitments, demonstrate her determination to prioritize community welfare. “I couldn’t be happier with this balance. I’m learning a lot from being a mother and a driver, and this experience enriches my life,” she noted.

Stewart, who also competes in racing events, believes that their philanthropic efforts serve to inspire change beyond the racetrack. He remarked, “We have a responsibility to give back, especially in times when communities are facing such critical issues. We hope our involvement can make a difference.”

As the couple continues to represent racing at prominent events, their dedication to philanthropy shines through, encouraging fans and the racing community alike to join them in their mission to eradicate addiction.

Looking ahead, the couple plans to keep amplifying their causes, ensuring that even amidst the thrill of racing, their commitment to social betterment remains steadfast.