The racing world is mourning the loss of former NASCAR competitor Michael Annett, who passed away on Friday at the age of 39. Annett, known for his victory at Daytona International Speedway in 2019, was a key figure in the sport for over a decade.
A Career Highlighted by Daytona Victory
Michael Annett's most notable achievement came in 2019 when he won an O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at the iconic Daytona International Speedway. The Iowa native began his professional racing career after moving to North Carolina, quickly making a name for himself in the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) Series.
He secured his first major win at Talladega Superspeedway in October 2007 and followed it with a victory at the Daytona ARCA 200 in February 2008. Annett's career spanned all three levels of NASCAR, including 106 starts in the premier Cup Series from 2014 through 2016.
Key Role at JR Motorsports
From 2017 to 2021, Annett was a central part of JR Motorsports, driving the famed No. 1 Chevrolet Camaro in the competition then known as the Xfinity Series. The team, co-owned by racing legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller, credited Annett with playing an instrumental role in their growth.
In a statement posted on social media, JR Motorsports said, "Michael was a key member of JRM from 2017 until he retired in 2021 and was an important part in turning us into the four-car organization we remain today." The team extended its thoughts and prayers to the Annett family.
Tributes from the Racing Community
News of Annett's passing prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the motorsports industry. His talent agency, Rising Star Management Group, announced the death in a social media post on Friday night, writing, "We are sad to have lost a family member. Michael Annett will always be in our hearts."
Xfinity Racing also expressed its sorrow on the X platform, stating, "We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of former Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett at the age of 39. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Annett family in this difficult time."
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed. Annett's racing career concluded at the end of the 2021 season after he reinjured his right leg, forcing him to miss the final three races. The racing community now remembers him as a determined competitor and a valued member of its extended family.
