Wednesday morning, Carl Edwards announced he is “stepping way” from full-time NASCAR competition after 12 full seasons in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series.
Edwards cited his satisfaction with his career and his desire to remain healthy and pursue other opportunities.
The native of Columbia, Missouri, drove only for Roush Fenway Racing and Joe Gibbs Racing in his Cup career. He took time to acknowledge his competitors and his history of being a difficult teammate.
“There is nothing I love more than driving down a corner at 190 miles an hour sideways next to the best drivers in the world,” Edwards said. “You guys are amazing. You can be jerks sometimes, but let’s be honest, I can be a jerk, too. But what you’ve done for me, my competitors, all of you, is you’ve pushed me ... when you win one of these races or you do well, you know that you have beaten the best, and it feels almost impossible in the process, but then when you’re done, it’s the most amazing feeling ever, and that’s because of how good all of you guys are, so thanks for letting me be a part of that group.”
Edwards’ announcement led his peers and competitors to acknowledge him on social media.
But start with a message Carl Edwards recorded for social media right after his press conference. Edwards said it was the “most nervous” he’s ever been to speak in front of a crowd.
A special message from #CarlEdwards to his fans. "Thank you." #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/EV3uhzzcni
— Joe Gibbs Racing (@JoeGibbsRacing) January 11, 2017
Surprised by Carl stepping away from @Nascar. But appreciate his decision. He was a great, fierce competitor #respect
— Martin Truex Jr. (@MartinTruex_Jr) January 11, 2017
Carl has always been one of the most fair and hard racing drivers. I've learned as much from his character on the track as off. #NASCAR
— Joey Logano (@joeylogano) January 11, 2017
Really happy for Carl Edwards. One of the fastest guys you'll ever race. Great to see him doing what he wants after an incredible career.
— Kasey Kahne (@kaseykahne) January 11, 2017
Just watched Carl Edwards press conference. He is such a great guy and I can truly relate with how he got started in #nascar by persistence
— Matt DiBenedetto (@mattdracing) January 11, 2017
My thoughts on Carl Edwards stepping away, they're simple; Good for Carl. He's doing what we all work towards, living on his terms.
— Regan Smith (@ReganSmith) January 11, 2017
Always tuff always gracefull and humble off the car #carledwards is an example of life not just @NASCAR competitor #respect @JoeGibbsRacing
— Max Papis (@maxpapis) January 11, 2017
Like so many, didn't see this coming at all! Carl has always been a great competitor & will be missed. Wish him the best in next chapter. https://t.co/PQDX8zm8yl
— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) January 11, 2017