NHRA has disqualified motorsports icon Tony Stewart from the Betway NHRA Carolina Nationals citing what they describe as unapproved ignition parts on the McPhilips Racing Top Alcohol Dragster he pilots. The infraction was discovered during a post-run inspection. 

Because of the nature of parts found to be in violation, NHRA has only removed Stewart from competition. Zero points will be awarded, per the NHRA rulebook.

McPhillips issued a statement on Saturday afternoon.

“McPhillips Racing prides itself in being honorable in all of our racing competition. Prior to Tony (Stewart’s) Round 1 of eliminations at the Carolina Nationals, NHRA confiscated the magnetos on Tony’s Top Alcohol dragster. It was brought to our attention that the magnetos, which we had purchased used from another team, were found to not be within NHRA’s tolerance. The part had been unknowingly modified prior to us purchasing it. The part is not required to be certified in our Top Alcohol category.

“We regret that Tony was unable to compete in the Carolina Nationals due
to this violation. The team is solely owned by McPhillips, and Tony has no say in the purchase of parts. McPhillips Racing accepts full responsibility, and going forward, we will be more vigilant in inspecting and testing used parts that we purchase.” 

Stewart came into the NHRA Carolina Nationals in first place of the Top Alcohol Dragster division following his Top Alcohol victory last weekend in Reading, Pa.