Carl Edwards Will Not Drive the 22, Shell Sponsorship Doubtful

A week ago a rumor was started that Carl Edwards may head to Penske Racing to drive the No. 22 car with sponsorship from Shell/Pennzoil. The driver, who is not currently in the chase for the sprint cup, shot down that rumor earlier today.

While Edwards declined to talk about the specifics of his contract with Roush Fenway Racing he did say the following.

“I will be driving the #99 Fastenal Ford next year. I’ve never explored the option of driving the #22 car. That’s why it took me so long to mention to you guys, I thought that was so silly that it had traction, but I guess it had.Does that satisfy you guys? Is there any other part of it that I have not addressed?”

Edwards then said he did not know if Shell could sponsor his car next season.  “I’ve never spoken with anyone at Shell. No one has brought that up. So that would be a good question for Steve [Newmark].”

Knowing that he will be driving the No. 99 Ford Fusion for Jack Roush is what has the veteran “excited” about 2013.

The answer to who will be driving the No. 22 car could come next week. Matt Kenseth is expected to be announced as the new driver of the No. 20 Home Depot Toyota at Joe Gibbs Racing. That move will push Joey Logano out of the organization and many have ticketed him for the vacant ride at Penske. Currently Sam Hornish Jr. is driving the No. 22 for Penske.

Personal Opinion

Moving Edwards from the No. 99 to the No. 22 never made much sense to me. I had a hard time believe that Jack Roush would give up one of his top drivers, that he had sponsorship for, to another car owner; even if that car owner fielded Ford backed cars. Considering the relationship of Penske and Shell, I also find it hard to believe that the oil giant will sponsor Edwards in any fashion next season.

John Boarman
John Boarmanhttp://www.tireball.com
Founder and Owner of Tireball Sports.

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