Michael Annett, Veteran NASCAR Driver with 436 National-Series Starts, Dies at 39
Evansville IN – Former NASCAR driver Michael Annett, known for his consistency, grit, and professionalism across the sport’s top developmental and national touring series, has died at the age of 39, CBS reported Saturday. No cause of death has been released.
The news was first shared publicly by JR Motorsports, where Annett spent the most successful years of his career. The team’s tribute described him as a valued member of the organization and “a competitor who gave everything he had, every single week.”
NASCAR also confirmed his passing and honored him as “a respected competitor, whose determination, professionalism, and positive spirit were felt by everyone in the garage.”
A Career Defined by Steady Progress and Breakthroughs
Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, Annett built his motorsports career steadily, earning a reputation as a reliable driver capable of contending on some of the sport’s biggest stages. He made 436 combined starts across NASCAR’s three national series, including 321 in the Xfinity Series, where he spent the bulk of his career.
His defining racing moment came in 2019, when he captured the season-opening Xfinity Series victory at Daytona International Speedway—one of the most prestigious wins in stock car racing.
Before reaching NASCAR, Annett also left his mark in the ARCA Menards Series, securing wins at Talladega Superspeedway in 2007 and the Daytona opener in 2008, early indicators of his superspeedway skill.
A Valued Member of JR Motorsports
Annett joined JR Motorsports in 2017 after being signed by team co-owner and NASCAR icon Dale Earnhardt Jr. Over five seasons, he became known as a dependable presence within the organization. Even during setbacks—including a stress fracture in his leg that sidelined him for part of the 2021 season—Annett remained admired for his steady attitude and work ethic.
A representative team statement noted, “Michael was the kind of person who made our shop and our team better, on and off the track.”
A Loss Felt Across the Racing World
Reactions from drivers, fans, and industry figures reflected the respect Annett earned over more than a decade in racing. Motorsports analyst Kelly Crandall commented in a representative tribute, “Annett may not have always been in the spotlight, but he was the definition of a hardworking driver who made the most of every opportunity.”
His passing adds to a somber period for the racing community, reminding fans of the tight-knit nature of a sport where relationships forged in garages and paddocks often become lifelong bonds.
As the industry awaits more information, tributes continue to pour in for a driver remembered for his character as much as his on-track accomplishments.
