Angry Tony Stewart Crew Member, Peeved Reporter FINALLY Make Peace

It was one of NASCAR’s most unforgettable nights — Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s emotional win in the 2001 Pepsi 400. But behind the cheers came chaos. Tony Stewart was black-flagged for going below the yellow line, then unleashed a post-race tirade that spiraled from angry words to a tape recorder being kicked under a transporter. One columnist called him a “first-class jerk,” sparking a garage-area confrontation with Stewart’s loyal crewman, Chris “Spider” Gillan. Now, nearly 25 years later, they sit down face-to-face to finally clear the air.

• Why Spider says the 20 team felt like “us against everybody” during Stewart’s early Cup years
• The behind-the-scenes Tony Stewart that fans never saw — and why crew members would defend him at all costs
• How crew chief Greg Zipadelli managed Stewart during heated moments and kept him focused on winning
• The 2002 championship season — was it a giant middle finger to critics, or something deeper?

From Daytona drama to title glory, this conversation digs into loyalty, reputation, and how one of NASCAR’s most controversial stars grew over time. The fireworks that once fueled anger now spark laughs and mutual respect — proof that time really can bury old grudges.

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