CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In a stunning decision, NASCAR driver Carl Edwards is walking away from the final year of his contract with Joe Gibbs Racing less than two months after nearly winning his first Cup championship.

Joe Gibbs Racing scheduled a pair of news conferences today in which Edwards is expected to announce he will not drive the No. 19 Toyota next season. Reigning Xfinity Series champion Daniel Suarez will replace Edwards in the Cup Series.