During the final lap of the 2010 Missouri-Illinois Dodge Dealers 250 Xfinity race at Gateway International Raceway, former NASCAR Xfinity Series champion Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski engaged in a high-stakes battle. Edwards, driving the #60 Ford for Roush Fenway Racing, led as they entered the last lap, but Keselowski made contact in Turn 1, forcing Edwards off the preferred racing line. Reacting quickly, Edwards bumped Keselowski in Turn 3, sending Keselowski into the wall and sparking a major multi-car crash. Edwards crossed the finish line first, while Keselowski was pushed back to 14th place.
Aftermath and NASCAR’s Disciplinary Actions
Following the intense incident, NASCAR issued penalties to both drivers, placing them on probation for the remainder of the 2010 Xfinity Series season. Edwards was fined $25,000 and penalized with a 60-point deduction in the driver standings. The sanctions reflected the severity of their aggressive behavior and the resulting crash. Both Edwards and Keselowski faced the consequences of their actions, which fueled a rivalry that continued in the years ahead.
Carl Edwards Stands by His Racing Style and Decision
Known throughout his racing career for combining aggressive driving with a clean-cut reputation, Edwards defended his conduct at Gateway. In media interviews, he expressed that championship drivers cannot allow others to dominate without resistance. He stated,
“I don’t think there one championship driver that can go along and let someone take wins away from him. I race hard and I’m not gonna let somebody take advantage of me, that’s for sure. I’ve been consistent about that and honest about it.”
—Carl Edwards, NASCAR Driver
Edwards’ Apology and Reflections Post-Incident
Although Edwards accepted the penalties and did not appeal them, he extended apologies to the other drivers affected by the crash but notably not to Keselowski. He also welcomed that Keselowski was penalized, emphasizing the risk he felt his own car faced during the collision. Edwards remarked,
“I sincerely apologize to the other guys who were caught up in that wreck. But I’m real happy with is that NASCAR realized Brad needed to be penalized, too. My race car could have been the one turned around instead of his.”
—Carl Edwards, NASCAR Driver
The Lasting Impact of the Gateway Incident on Both Drivers’ Careers
The clash at Gateway International Raceway became a defining moment in the intense rivalry between Carl Edwards and Brad Keselowski. Both drivers went on to accomplish much in their professional journeys, with Keselowski securing the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series championship and Edwards retiring in 2016. Since retiring, Edwards has transitioned to a broadcasting role, serving as an analyst for NASCAR coverage on Prime Video, contributing his insights and experience to the sport beyond the track.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Brad Keselowski Polish?
A. Best wishes to Brad Keselowski, a seasoned NASCAR driver with Polish heritage, racing this weekend in the NASCAR Chicago events. Brad drives the No. 6 Ford Mustang Dark Horse full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series.
