HEARTBREAKING SAD NEWS: NASCAR Community in Shock as Tony Stewart Angrily Questions Leadership After Tragic Incident at Eldora Speedway
Rossburg, OH – May 17, 2025
The NASCAR community is reeling after a tragic incident at Eldora Speedway that claimed the life of a young dirt track racer late Saturday night. The devastating news has shaken fans and drivers alike — and has drawn a fiery, emotional response from Eldora Speedway owner and racing legend Tony Stewart, who is now publicly questioning NASCAR’s leadership and commitment to grassroots racing safety.
The incident occurred during a late-model feature event at the famed dirt track in Ohio, where 20-year-old racer Mason Keller lost control of his car during a high-speed battle for position. His vehicle flipped violently into the outside wall and was struck by another car moments later. Emergency personnel responded immediately, but Keller was pronounced dead at the scene.
Keller, a rising star in dirt racing and a development prospect with ties to multiple NASCAR Truck Series teams, was seen as one of the sport’s most promising young talents.
News of his death sparked an outpouring of grief across social media, with top NASCAR drivers, crew members, and fans sharing tributes to the young racer.
But in the aftermath, emotions have turned to anger and questions — especially from Tony Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the most influential figures in American motorsports.
Appearing visibly shaken and furious, Stewart addressed reporters early Sunday morning at Eldora Speedway, where he did not hold back his frustration.
> “We keep losing young drivers and everyone just keeps moving on like it’s normal,” Stewart said. “I’m sick of it. I’m angry. Where is the accountability? Where are the changes? Mason Keller should not be dead right now.”
Stewart, who purchased Eldora Speedway in 2004 and has spent the last two decades growing its national prominence, called on NASCAR and dirt racing sanctioning bodies to launch an immediate investigation and overhaul safety measures for feeder series and grassroots tracks.
> “We need better tech, better walls, better rules. We’ve got kids going 130 miles per hour on old dirt with barebones safety barriers. It’s not good enough anymore,” Stewart added. “These aren’t just racers — they’re sons, brothers, friends. We owe them better.”
While Eldora Speedway is not officially sanctioned under NASCAR’s banner, many of its events attract NASCAR-affiliated talent, sponsors, and scouts. The track is seen as a proving ground for future national-level drivers, which makes this tragedy even more personal for the NASCAR community.
NASCAR issued a short statement Sunday morning, expressing condolences but offering no immediate comment on Stewart’s criticisms.
> “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mason Keller and send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire racing community,” the statement read.
Stewart’s comments have since gone viral, with fans and fellow drivers rallying behind his passionate plea for change. Chase Briscoe tweeted, “Tony’s right. We can’t wait for another tragedy to make a move. This should be the turning point.”
As tributes continue to pour in for Mason Keller, a young man described by friends as humble, fearless, and destined for greatness, the racing world now faces a reckoning over the conditions and safety standards that govern grassroots racing.
Tony Stewart has made it clear: change is not optional — it’s overdue.
