Joe Gibbs Racing, Huntersville, North Carolina

Wednesday, January 11, 2017, 10:00 A.M.

Announced on Tuesday the 10th, Joe Gibbs Racing stated a press conference was to be held on Wednesday. Multiple sources suggested it involved the unexpected and early retirement of Carl Edwards, and the promotion of Daniel Suarez, the 2016 Xfinity Series Champion, to the position of driver of the no. 19 Monster Energy Cup Series JGR car. However, these rumors had yet to be confirmed by the team itself.

Edwards entered with a smile and a few jokes, but quickly got down to business. “I’m stepping away from full-time in the Cup Series,” he said during the opening, not long after appearing on the podium. Edwards proceeded to thank all his family friends, and others involved in his career.

Edwards proceeded to give three reasons as to why he was retiring. “I’m satisfied with my career, ” he opened with, stating that he was ok having not won a championship, joking, “Jimmie has some to spare, he can send one my way.” His second reason was the time involved, saying he had more thing he wanted to devote his time to. His final reason was the risks involved. “I’m sharp guy,” he said, “And I want to be a sharp guy in 30 years.” His plainest statement was, “I don’t like the hits we take.” When asked about the timing, Edwards said he simply couldn’t find a reason why now wasn’t a good time.

“Those are my reasons. I’m satisfied with my career,” he said, before answering questions from the media. Edwards’ career will end with 28 wins, 2 runner up finishes in the Cup series points, and a fourth place finish in the 2016 points standings. He also has the 2007 Xfinity Series championship, an All-Star race win, a Coca-Cola 600 win, a Southern 500 win, and 72 wins in Nascar’s top 3 touring Series’.

However, Edwards was open to the idea of racing some races in the future. While certain he would never race full time again, he was verbal that he race again, and he said the first man he would go to is Joe Gibbs. As for his future, Edward was very open, but also was clear that he doesn’t have all his plans worked out.

Edwards’ final comments were those of thanks, for all that had been given to him, and some excitement about the future. However, Edwards’ announcement wasn’t the only one of the day.