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Carl Edwards: The Unlucky NASCAR Legend Returns, Not on the Track, but in the Broadcast Booth

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
March 21, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Carl Edwards Shuts Down NASCAR Return—For Now, But Leaves Door Slightly Open

Jan 11, 2017; Huntersville, NC, USA; NASCAR driver Carl Edwards announces his retirement during a press conference at Joe Gibbs Racing headquarters. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports

In NASCAR’s storied history, there have been numerous tales of nail-biting finishes and heart-wrenching losses. In this context, one name that resonates is that of Carl Edwards, often considered the most unfortunate driver not to have claimed a championship.

Edwards’ racing career is a saga filled with tantalizingly close calls, the first of which came in 2008. With six victories under his belt, Edwards, driving the No. 99 Roush Fenway Ford, seemed poised to clinch his first championship. Despite commendable success at Atlanta, Texas, and Homestead, he was unable to seize the coveted Bill France Trophy. A pivotal moment was the Atlanta event where Jimmie Johnson finished second, followed by Edwards’ triumph in Phoenix. This sudden twist left Edwards and his team reeling. Yet, it was his loss in 2011 that probably left the deepest wound.

By the time 2011 rolled around, Edwards had become a testament to consistency, boasting 25 top-10 finishes before that year’s championship race. In contrast, two-time champion Tony Stewart had been struggling, with only 11 top-10 finishes and no victories in the regular season. However, the Chase had a surprise in store.

Stewart emerged as a formidable opponent, securing four wins in the Chase. As the season reached its climax at Homestead Miami Speedway, few could predict the ensuing drama. Luck proved to be a fickle companion for Edwards once more.

Edwards, driving the number 99 car for Roush Fenway Racing, started at the pole while his championship adversary began at the 15th position. Early damage to Stewart’s car seemed to indicate a clear path for Edwards. Yet, Stewart, a testament to his world champion status, spectacularly fought his way back from the rear of the field, taking the lead on lap 154. The adrenaline-filled race was far from over.

Following a slow pit stop on the restart, Stewart found himself in 9th place. Undeterred, he clawed his way back up, securing the 3rd position by lap 176, with Edwards leading the pack. The game of pit stops continued, with Edwards pitting for new tires on lap 202 and Stewart taking a risk with mileage, not pitting until lap 212. As if on cue, the skies opened on lap 213, leading to a caution for rain with Edwards at the helm.

When the race resumed on lap 231, Stewart was in the 3rd place. Armed with fresher tires, he took the lead while Edwards trailed behind. Despite his best efforts, Edwards couldn’t overtake Stewart, whose No. 14 SHR car crossed the finish line out of Edwards’ reach.

In a shocking turn of events, the two championship contenders ended up tied on points. In a first for NASCAR, a tie-breaker was employed to determine the champion. Stewart, with his five wins compared to Edwards’ one, was crowned the champion.

Edwards accepted his fate with grace and humility. In a post-race interview, he said, “I told my wife, if I can’t win this thing, I’m gonna be the best loser NASCAR’s ever had.”

Edwards got another shot at the championship in 2016 with Joe Gibbs Racing. However, a controversial debris caution robbed him of a potential victory. The loss proved too much for Edwards, who subsequently announced his retirement from NASCAR.

In recent news, the Hall of Famer is set to return to NASCAR, not as a driver but as a part of the broadcast team for Amazon Prime Video. He’ll be providing expert insights during pre and post-coverage, alongside Danielle Trotta and Cup Series driver Corey LaJoie.

Alex Strand, Sr. coordinating producer at Prime Video, was delighted to add Edwards to the team. “Carl’s Hall-of-Fame career, combined with the extensive experience of Trevor, Kim, and Marty, brings an unparalleled authenticity to our coverage,” he remarked.

Despite not holding a championship, Edwards’ impressive resume, which includes 28 Cup victories, 124 top fives, 220 top 10s, and 22 poles, makes him a certified NASCAR expert. His fans, while eagerly awaiting his return, still hope that he might reconsider his decision and grace the racetrack once again.

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