NASCAR – Tony Stewart returns to Atlanta

For three weeks, Tony Stewart's career had been put on hold. Involved in an accident during a race of Sprint Car at Canadaigua Motorsports Park on August 9, which cost the life of driver Kevin Ward Jr, the three-time Cup champion did not take part in any race, while the investigation continued. Last night, a press release from the American series came out announcing Stewart's possible return to competition this weekend for the Atlanta round in Georgia.

“Tony Stewart has received all necessary clearances to resume racing activities, and is eligible to compete this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway. There NASCAR will remain in constant contact with his team, and we will support Stewart for his return to competition. » explained Steve O’Donnell, executive vice president of the discipline.

A few moments later, the Stewart stable-Haas in turn published a press release. “Tony Stewart has decided to return to competition this weekend in Atlanta, Georgia. This will be his first Sprint Cup Series race since August 3 and the Pocono round. Tony missed the last three races at Watkins Glen (New York), Michigan and Bristol, Tennessee, after the accident. »

Smoke had in fact been replaced twice by veteran Jeff Burton and by Regan Smith at Watkins Glen for the last road race of the year. Stewart still hasn't secured his spot for the 2014 Chase, and there are two events remaining before the start of the playoffs including this weekend's race. Stewart has won the Atlanta event three times.