Carl Edwards, a former NASCAR driver, recently opened up about the heartbreaking events that led to him losing the 2016 NASCAR Cup Series championship. In a candid interview with Dirty Mo Media on X, Edwards delved into the chaos that unfolded during that race and ultimately cost him the title.
During the interview on the Dale Jr. Download, Carl Edwards recounted the tumultuous experience he had at Homestead-Miami Speedway. He mentioned how his motorhome broke down, and everything seemed to be going wrong both on and off the track. Despite having the fastest car, he recalled a close call with Danica Patrick during practice and a pivotal moment where a mistake on his part or a bad pit stop left him trailing behind the pace car. However, his crew chief, Dave Rogers, provided him with the reassurance he needed to keep pushing forward.
“I remember pulling out, weaving behind the pace car thinking I did it, I gave up my whole, everything I ever worked for,” Edwards shared. “I never forget Dave Rogers, coming on the radio and saying, ‘we got em right where we want em.'”
Despite the setbacks, Carl Edwards managed to overtake his competitors and was on track to secure the championship. However, a final caution changed the course of the race, leading Edwards to feel like the universe was conspiring against him.
“It was like the final thing to say, dammit, you are not supposed to win this thing,” he expressed.
At the time, Edwards even accused NASCAR of throwing cautions to spice up the race, a claim he referred to as a “fact.” However, with hindsight, he realized that losing the championship was a blessing in disguise as it helped him discover that racing wasn’t his true passion.
After nearly a decade away from NASCAR, Carl Edwards is set to make a comeback, albeit not as a driver. He will be joining Amazon Prime Video’s NASCAR team as a studio analyst alongside Danielle Trotta and Corey LaJoie. His five-race package will kick off with the Coca-Cola 600 on May 25th, followed by races in Nashville, Michigan, Pocono, and Mexico City.
In an interview with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Edwards explained his decision to return to the sport. Despite turning down previous offers to join the broadcast booth, the limited five-race schedule presented a unique opportunity for him to share his insights with fans.
“We just basically ran around Columbia, Missouri and did my normal day. And I realized this is a part of the family. Like this is the family I want to be a part of. Cool people, they actually care about the sport,” he said.
For those who have missed Carl Edwards’ charismatic presence in NASCAR, his return to the sport, even in a broadcasting role, will undoubtedly be a welcome sight. Edwards’ unique perspective and experience in the sport are sure to add value to Amazon Prime Video’s NASCAR coverage, making it a must-watch for fans.
