Kenseth shocked by Edwards’ decision not to race: The fallout of Carl Edwards’ sudden retirement from NASCAR racing continues. During his session during Tuesday’s NASCAR Media Tour in Charlotte, Matt Kenseth discussed his now-former teammate. And yet, Kenseth still can’t believe there’ll be a different driver in the #19 Toyota in 2017. “I was as surprised as anyone else,” Kenseth said. “I knew it was bad news when “ this is my fifth year here (with Joe Gibbs Racing), right? “ and it was the first time we ever had a conference call with all the drivers and crew chiefs on a Sunday night, after all the football games.” Kenseth said he’s spoken to Edwards several time since the latter’s retirement announcement, but is still as baffled today as ever. “I was very, very surprised,” Kenseth said. “But the more I think about it, I wasn’t shocked “¦ but I definitely didn’t see it coming.” The 2017 season, Kenseth’s 20th season on the NASCAR Cup circuit, could be a very pivotal year for Kenseth. First, he turns 45 on March 10. Second, he’s in the final year of his current contract with JGR (pending any extension in the future).(NBC Sports)(1-24-2017)
