Kevin Harvick on Tony Stewart's return: 'That will be great medicine'

On Sunday, Tony Stewart is scheduled to drive in his first race since his sprint car hit and killed Kevin Ward Jr. on Aug. 9. Stewart-Haas Racing driver Kevin Harvick said he thinks getting back on the track will be good for Stewart.

On Sunday, Tony Stewart is scheduled to drive in his first race since his sprint car hit and killed Kevin Ward Jr. on Aug. 9. Stewart-Haas Racing driver Kevin Harvick told USA TODAY he thinks getting back on the track will be good for Stewart.

Stewart has missed the last three Sprint Cup races, but announced Thursday he would be racing in the Oral-B USA 500 at AMS on Aug. 31.

From USA TODAY:

"I'm least concerned about the racing side of it," said SHR driver Kevin Harvick. "I know for him that will be great medicine to have some type of normal activity in his life again that he hasn't been able to have. But, from a personal standpoint, I'm glad to see my friend and be able to talk to him and be able to support him through probably what will be the hardest situation he's had to go through in his whole life."

Jeff Burton drove Stewart's No. 14 car in the previous two races at Michigan and Bristol.

Stewart is No. 26 in the Sprint Cup points standings. The top 16 drivers qualify for the Chase for the Sprint Cup.

- Sarah Barshop