Tony Stewart’s Connection to Eldora Speedway: Is It Over?

The racing community was abuzz with speculation recently as rumors circulated that Tony Stewart, the NASCAR legend and owner of Eldora Speedway, had sold the iconic dirt track. Known for its rich history and prominence in dirt track racing, Eldora has been a cornerstone of motorsports since its founding in 1954 by Earl and Berneice Baltes.

Since purchasing the track in 2004, Stewart has worked tirelessly to preserve its legacy while elevating its status in the racing world. The rumors of a sale, however, cast uncertainty among fans and racers alike, prompting Stewart to respond decisively.

“I don’t know who was really bored and thought they would play a nice practical joke at home, but this track is not sold and it is not for sale,” Stewart said. “This is a tradition with Earl and Berneice (Baltes) that they started back in 1954 that we’re proud to be owners of this race track. It’s something that we’re passionate about.” He added, “This track is not for sale. It’s not sold. It’s ours. And we plan on keeping it for a long time.”

Recognizing a Dedicated Team

Stewart also took a moment to highlight the behind-the-scenes efforts of his team, particularly the contributions of Jonathan Bateman. Bateman has been instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of Eldora Speedway during challenging times.

“I want to especially thank Jonathan Bateman, who has worn nearly every hat and done every job at Eldora since joining us in 2006,” Stewart said. “He became our interim general manager after Jerry passed, and he had less than two weeks to get ready for one of our biggest races, the Dirt Late Model Dream. He was an absolute pro, and the Dream and our summer slate of racing wouldn’t have happened if it weren’t for the experience and work ethic Jonathan brings to Eldora every day.”

A Bright Future for Eldora

Stewart’s words are a reassurance to fans and the motorsports community that Eldora Speedway remains in capable hands. Under Stewart’s ownership, the track will continue to thrive as a premier venue for dirt racing and a symbol of its proud traditions.

With the rumors put to rest, the focus shifts back to the racing action at Eldora and the legacy Stewart is committed to preserving for generations to come.