Formula 1 versus NASCAR. Michael Schumacher versus Carl Edwards. Safe to say, the 2008 Race of Champions at the Wembley Stadium was eventful with drivers of different reputations participating in it.

With both Schumacher and Edwards taking to the wheel of an Abarth 500 Assetto Corse, the fans in the stadium were hoping to see the legendary German driver qualify for the next round.

However, Edwards, with all of his NASCAR grit and experience was certainly no pushover. The eventual result and lap timings left viewers surprised, to say the least.

Carl Edwards beat Michael Schumacher in the prestigious event

As the race ensued, Edwards put his oval tracks driving sense into full usage. He was particularly sharper at the tight corners and maneuvered the car to best effect, not losing much time.

Schumacher, on the other hand, made a slight error on his part of the circuit. In an attempt to go faster, there was a loss of time from his end. And eventually, Edwards edged the round, beating Schumacher by nearly 2 seconds.

Although Edwards progressed to the next round, he was eventually beaten by another F1 driver, David Coulthard. The latter crashed in the final corner but crossed the line to defeat Edwards.

Speaking about racing Schumacher, Edwards stated at the time, “It’s amazing, it feels like I’ve won a championship. I’ll never forget that moment as long as I live. Just the chance to be able to race with him, and fortunately to be able to beat him.”

Edwards had a good Cup Series career during his time in the sport

That very year, the Missouri native had a stellar season in the Cup Series. Driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, Edwards won nine races that year, which happened to be his strongest ever season.

He came close to winning the title but was beaten to it by an in-form Jimmie Johnson. Edwards then spent a few more years trying to make a championship challenge. Irrespective of that, he will always remember that one time he beat Schumacher in similar machinery.

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