The motorsport community is in mourning following the announcement that former NASCAR driver Michael Annett has passed away at the age of 39.
A Respected Career Across NASCAR Series
Annett, a native of Des Moines, Iowa, was a seasoned competitor who amassed 436 combined starts across NASCAR's three premier national touring series. The majority of his career was spent in the Xfinity Series, where he made 321 starts. His former team, JR Motorsports (JRM), shared the tragic news on social media on Friday.
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed. However, fellow former NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski offered poignant words on social media, stating: 'All of us who knew him and the talent he had are sad to see him go, but glad he is no longer suffering.'
Key Role at JR Motorsports and Memorable Victory
JR Motorsports released an official statement honouring Annett's contribution to their organisation. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Annett family with the passing of our friend Michael Annett,' the statement read. It highlighted his pivotal role, noting he was 'a key member of JRM from 2017 until he retired in 2021' and played an important part in the team's expansion to a four-car operation.
Of his 321 Xfinity Series starts, a significant 158 were with the JR Motorsports team. The pinnacle of his national series career came in 2019 when he piloted the No. 1 JRM Chevrolet to victory in the season-opening race at the legendary Daytona International Speedway. This marked his sole win at NASCAR's national level.
Tributes from the Racing World
Annett's talent was also evident earlier in his career in the ARCA Menards Series, where he was a two-time winner. He triumphed at Talladega Superspeedway in 2007 and followed it with a win in the series opener at Daytona in 2008.
NASCAR itself issued a moving statement, saying: 'NASCAR is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former NASCAR driver Michael Annett. Michael was a respected competitor whose determination, professionalism, and positive spirit were felt by everyone in the garage. Throughout his career, he represented our sport with integrity and the passion of a true racer.' The organisation extended its condolences to Annett's family and friends.
The loss of Michael Annett at such a young age has sent waves of sadness through the racing fraternity, remembering him as both a determined competitor and a positive presence in the paddock.
