NASCAR fans were hit with an electric bolt when Carl Edwards announced that he was stepping out of the driver’s seat to pursue other interests. In a press conference that left NASCAR journalist clamoring to ask questions, Carl cited three reasons for his retirement; he is personally satisfied, he wants to pursue things he is passionate about, and his health. Carl stated he was healthy, but wanted to minimize any risk by leaving the sport now.
The consummate professional, Carl diligently explained his decision to step away from the track, but the timing for most is still mysterious considering he was close to winning a championship last season. Many have speculated that Carl was itching to make a change. Others whispered that he was discontent behind the wheel of a Toyota. Carl laid all theories to rest by simply stating it was time.
Gibbs: "This threw us a curve ball but that's a part of life and big-time sports."
— Jim Utter (@jim_utter) January 11, 2017
No one, not even team owner Joe Gibbs, saw one of NASCAR’s most beloved drivers retiring in his prime. As NASCAR fans are left baffled by Carl’s sudden decision, we can conclude he stepped away with grace. He raced his way, and retired on his terms.
Carl Edwards spoke for approximately 40 minutes. Some might still be cynical about his reasons for leaving, but I'm fully convinced.
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) January 11, 2017
Below are links to a few stories on Carl Edwards’ sudden retirement being talked about around NASCAR Nation. Have something to say about Carl walking away from the sport? Make sure to leave a comment. Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest NASCAR news delivered to you once a week.
Exclusive: Carl Edwards won’t race in 2017 – Fox Sports
Carl Edwards leaves JGR: What they’re writing – NASCAR
Cain: Edwards exits same way he entered — with focused, sincere class – NASCAR
In truth, Carl Edwards was ready to make a change – Fox Sports
Vote now: Does Carl Edwards belong in the NASCAR Hall of Fame? – Fox Sports
Fact or fiction? 10 keys to Carl Edwards leaving Joe Gibbs Racing – Fox Sports
Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series: Five drivers who could retire next – Fox Sports
NASCAR on NBC analysts offer thoughts on Carl Edwards news – NASCAR on NBC
NASCAR: Fans of Carl Edwards should be ashamed of themselves – Beyond The Flag
Social Roundup: Drivers react to Carl Edwards ‘stepping away’ from NASCAR – NASCAR on NBC
Carl Edwards steps away with reputation intact – ESPN
Carl Edwards through the years – NASCAR
Carl Edwards retires on his own terms – SB NATION
Carl Edwards leaving NASCAR with health, no regrets – ESPN
Impossible to argue with Carl Edwards’ reasons for stepping aside – Yahoo Sports
Carl Edwards isn’t going to TV booth for NASCAR – USA Today
Carl Edwards’ surprise retirement proves we suck at predictions – AutoWeek
Carl Edwards makes pure and private decision to leave NASCAR – AP
Daniel Suarez’s sudden promotion gives NASCAR a shot of diversity – USA Today
Opinion: Edwards’ decision to walk away may be a sign of things to come – MotorSports
I think Carl Edwards will return to racing, but with this private star you can never be sure – Charlotte Observer
Rising star Daniel Suarez was the easy pick to replace Carl Edwards for NASCAR Cup ride – AutoWeek
Edwards feels he “won” during Homestead NASCAR title decider – MotorSports
Who is Daniel Suarez, the guy taking over for Carl Edwards in NASCAR Cup series? – Charlotte Observer
Tags Carl Edwards Daniel Suarez Joe Gibbs Racing Monster Energy Nascar Cup Series NACAR Updates NASCAR NASCAR Talk Racing
