Carl Edwards’ return to NASCAR—this time behind the microphone—was one of the most surprising and celebrated storylines of the 2025 season. But just as quickly as it began, the beloved driver’s time as a studio analyst for Amazon Prime Video’s inaugural NASCAR broadcast run has come to an emotional close.
The final race of Prime Video’s five-race package aired from Pocono Raceway on June 22, bringing an end to a month-long stretch that not only saw Edwards return to the sport in a new role, but also stirred deep emotions among fans and broadcasters alike.
A Short but Special Stint in the Spotlight
Edwards first joined Amazon Prime’s NASCAR coverage earlier this year as part of the sport’s new seven-year, $7.7 billion media rights deal. Prime, alongside returning broadcasters FOX and NBC and fellow newcomer TNT Sports, was awarded a five-race summer window, beginning with the Coca-Cola 600 on May 25 and ending at Pocono on June 22.
In his role as studio analyst, Edwards joined Corey LaJoie for pre-race and post-race coverage, hosted by Danielle Trotta. While the broadcast booth featured Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte, and Adam Alexander, many fans tuned in specifically to hear from Edwards—a driver once known for his trademark backflips and now praised for his thoughtful, sharp insights on the sport he once dominated.
The former Cup Series contender quickly found his footing, offering a mix of humor, knowledge, and authenticity that made fans hope his return to the limelight wouldn’t be a one-time affair.
Carl Edwards’ Farewell: A Message from the Heart
At the end of Prime’s final NASCAR broadcast from Pocono, Edwards gave an emotional on-air farewell that resonated with fans and crew alike.
“Oh, it’s just sitting there thinking how much fun it is. You guys brought me back… You guys are amazing. The most special part for me is having my friend Justin Viet here in Michigan. He was with us. He’s fighting a battle at home. Justin loved it. You guys were welcoming to all my friends and family. Thank you for that.” – Carl Edwards
The #NASCARonPrime family 💙 pic.twitter.com/j7PwHaDuIh
— Sports on Prime (@SportsonPrime) June 23, 2025
The farewell, heartfelt and spontaneous, served as a reminder of what made Edwards such a fan favorite in the first place: his humility and genuine connection with people—on and off the track.
Fan Reaction: Nostalgia, Laughter, and Hope for More
Fans didn’t hold back their emotions after Edwards’ final sign-off. From nostalgia to playful jabs, the community was unified in its praise:
“Carl Edwards is great for TV and did such a great job on #NASCARonPrime. Hate that we have to wait until next year to have him back on.”
“Amazing job guys. Hands down the best coverage of the races. Hopefully you’ll be back for more races next year. 👏”
“Y’all have brought back the feel of 90’s NASCAR, and that’s a good thing! 👍”
“Thank you for the best 5 weeks of the season.”
“I’m gonna miss y’all! Please buy out everyone for the whole season 😢”
Even some tongue-in-cheek humor made the rounds, like one viral post that read:
“Brad Keselowski and Carl Edwards sitting next to one another smiling like they didn’t once try to murder each other several times 🤣🤣🤣.” – a nascar fan
The chemistry and nostalgic energy of the Prime broadcasts proved refreshing for many fans who have longed for the storytelling and character-driven coverage reminiscent of NASCAR’s golden eras.
Prime Video’s NASCAR Experiment: A New Broadcast Era Begins
Amazon Prime’s first foray into NASCAR wasn’t just a broadcasting experiment—it was a calculated risk that appears to be paying off. Over the course of its five races—Charlotte (Coca-Cola 600), Nashville, Michigan, Mexico City, and Pocono—Prime introduced a slicker, more interactive broadcast style and attracted a younger demographic. According to viewership reports, the Mexico City race even outperformed IndyCar and Formula 1’s North American events on the same weekend.
With Prime offering a free trial during its race run, many tuned in out of curiosity. But by the time Pocono wrapped, the sentiment was clear: fans were impressed, and many wanted more.
What’s Next for Carl Edwards?
While Edwards has not yet confirmed any plans to return for the 2026 season, the overwhelming fan support could play a role in shaping Prime Video’s future on-air team. Whether in the studio, behind the mic, or even back in a car, it’s clear Edwards still has the “it factor” that made him a household name in the first place.
For now, Edwards walks away from this stint with the same grace he always carried on the track—quietly, humbly, and with fans hoping it won’t be the last we see of him.
News in Brief: Carl Edwards Says Farewell as NASCAR on Prime Wraps
Carl Edwards’ emotional farewell and the conclusion of Prime Video’s five-race NASCAR slate marked a high point for the 2025 season. In just over a month, Prime helped rekindle the magic of old-school NASCAR coverage while also bringing in a fresh energy through its talent lineup and broadcast innovations. For Edwards, it was a comeback of a different kind—one that left fans wanting more.
ALSO READ: Carl Edwards Brutal Post-Crash Remarks to Tony Stewart After Devastating Pocono Collision
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Carl Edwards returning to NASCAR as an analyst for prime video?
A. After an eight-year self-imposed hiatus, Carl Edwards is back in NASCAR as part of Amazon Prime’s broadcast team. He serves as a pre- and post-race studio analyst for five races this season, including the Cracker Barrel 400. “I’m very curious to see how this goes,” Edwards said.
Q. Why did NASCAR go to Prime Video?
A. NASCAR’s partnership with Amazon Prime Video for mid-season race broadcasts has drawn criticism from fans facing difficulties with streaming access. The agreement, designed to expand NASCAR’s audience, focuses on long-term growth over traditional TV viewership.
