Carl Edwards on Practicing for Kyle Larson at the NASCAR All-Star Race ‘I’m Very Likely to Crash’
Kyle Larson has set his sights on Carl Edwards as his preferred stand-in driver for practice at the NASCAR All-Star Race. With Larson focused on qualifying for the Indianapolis 500, he won’t be able to participate in All-Star Race practice, leaving an open seat in the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet.
And his top pick to fill in? None other than the former NASCAR star Carl Edwards—a driver who hasn’t competed in a NASCAR Cup Series event since his shocking retirement in 2017.
Larson Makes a Bold Statement
Last week, Larson publicly endorsed Edwards for the role, making a compelling pitch to get the retired driver back on track:
“I think it would be great, that’s my pick this year,” Larson said. “I’ve mentioned it to Jeff Gordon and (Cliff Daniels), but nobody outside of that. So, it’s not anything serious right now, but that’s who I would pick. I think that would make a huge splash in the sport and be great … Carl, if you happen to see this, please jump in the No. 5 car. We want you.”
This isn’t the first time Hendrick Motorsports has turned to a legendary driver for assistance. Last season, Kevin Harvick stepped in for Larson during practice as he prepared for his ambitious attempt at running both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day.
Carl Edwards Responds: Is He Ready for a Comeback?
In a video interview with FOX Sports’ NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass, Edwards admitted he hasn’t received any formal offer from Hendrick Motorsports but acknowledged the honor of being considered.
“It’s an honor, really,” Edwards said. “(Larson) is one of the fastest guys to ever drive one of these cars, and for him to say that… I don’t know if he’s messing with me. I’m very likely to crash a car if I were to get in one right now.”
Edwards Open to the Idea—But With One Condition
While Edwards hasn’t ruled out the possibility entirely, he made it clear that jumping back into a NASCAR Cup car cold turkey isn’t ideal. He emphasized the need to get reacquainted with the car and the track, likely through simulator practice, before making any real commitments.
“It’s never a total no. I like options,” Edwards said. “It’s no for now, but I’d drive a sim and check it out.”
Will Fans See a Carl Edwards Comeback?
The idea of Carl Edwards returning to a NASCAR Cup Series car, even for practice, is enough to excite racing fans. While it remains uncertain whether Hendrick Motorsports will formally reach out, Edwards’ cautious yet open-ended response leaves the door slightly ajar for a potential All-Star Race surprise.
