Carl Edwards Defeats Michael Schumacher

Carl Edwards says he will never forget the moment that he beat seven time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher in the Race of Champions.

Edwards, who finished second in the NASCAR Sprint Cup this season, won his first round tie against British Formula 3 champion Jaime Alguersuari and was drawn against Schumacher in a race in Abarth rally cars in the second round.

Edwards drove a smooth race, simply outpacing Schumacher over the two laps and said beating a driver of such caliber felt like winning a title.

“It’s amazing, it feels like I’ve won a championship - I’ll never forget that moment as long as I live,” said Edwards. “Just the chance to be able to race with him, and fortunatley to be able to beat him.”

He was surprised to beat Schumacher in the Abarth cars after crashing in his only previous race in the car during the earlier Nations Cup competition, but believes the earlier practice was valuable.

“He didn’t get a chance to practice in that car today, only in the rain yesterday, so just like my first run today he was at a big disadvantage. That car is different to anything I’ve ever driven and I’m sure it’s the same for him.”

Edwards was also impressed by the atmosphere inside Wembley Stadium on his first visit to the Race of Champions.

“The atmosphere was great, it seemed like everybody was having a good time and it’s real friendly competition - until we get out on the track then everyone’s trying real hard.”