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via Getty

via Getty

As NASCAR’s Cup Series gears up for the Verizon 200 at the Brickyard at the iconic road course of Indiana Motor Speedway, another thrilling event is on the horizon. The legendary Tony Stewart is all set to compete in his hometown of Indiana. Recently, promoting the upcoming event alongside the beloved NFL team, the Indiana Colts, Tony Stewart made a memorable appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.

What followed was an adrenaline-fueled go-kart race involving the IndyCar, NASCAR, and NHRA champions. Excitement filled the air as Pat McAfee’s enthusiasm knew no bounds, but little did Tony know that he would be accused of rigging.

Tony Stewart’s racing journey: From Go-Karts to NASCAR and now NHRA

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In a candid conversation on his show, former NFL player and $30 million-worth sports personality Pat McAfee engaged in a revealing discussion with Tony Stewart, the racing legend. An intriguing revelation unfolded as they delved into Tony’s journey through go-karts to NASCAR and his current passion for the NHRA.

When asked about the start of his career, Tony mentioned, I started in go-karts at 8. I raced for a local company in Greenfield, Indiana, with comic cart sales Mark Dismore who was my teammate in IndyCar.

Pat couldn’t help but notice that there were karts parked outside. Raising an eyebrow, he said, “Ain’t that convenient.” McAfee also said, Yeah they might do some **** they might do some ****, but you starting go-karts right?” A connection was made to the kart company’s ownership, which happened to be Tony Stewart’s former IndyCar teammate. This connection further raised suspicions about the fun go-kart race they were about to have, suggesting that it could be rigged in Tony’s favor.

With opportunities in both NASCAR and IndyCar within a month of each other, Tony Stewart made the bold decision to pursue both paths simultaneously. Eventually, he found himself driving for Joe Gibbs in the NASCAR Cup Series, where the money and prestige were soaring. Tony said, “got an opportunity at this literally within a month of each other to drive for a NASCAR team and an IndyCar team and luckily the IndyCar Series only had five races the first year that the stock car team was willing to let me do both.

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Pat McAfee defended Tony Stewart amidst his co-host’s body-shaming attempt

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Excited to have the champ on the show, McAfee couldn’t contain his excitement, teasing the thrilling race to come and the promise of a video release. However, amidst the excitement, his co-host decided to play with fire by subtly body-shaming Stewart. When Pat McAfee mentioned his own weight of 255 pounds, the co-host quipped, “Smoke might be there,” insinuating that Stewart might not be as fit. But McAfee was quick to step in and defend his friend, reminding the co-host that Tony Stewart was likely around 220 pounds, a stocky and well-prepared athlete.

McAfee furiously responded and said, “Watch your tongue, I’m telling him you said that, he’s not 250. He’s probably like 220, he’s 5’9, he’s like a stockier guy.”

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As the NHRA US Nationals approach, Tony Stewart stands proud as a hometown hero. Competing in front of a familiar crowd at Indiana, Stewart’s connection with the fans runs deep. The support and encouragement from his fellow Hoosiers served as an extra boost for Stewart to shine in the prestigious event.

Read More: “We Have Shot Ourselves in the Foot” – Denny Hamlin Stands by Fellow Veteran Tony Stewart as He Explains the Downfall of NASCAR