Today the motorsport world mourns the loss of former NASCAR driver Michael Annett, who passed away at the age of 39. The shock and sadness sent reverberations throughout the NASCAR community — from former teammates to fans — as many shared condolences and memories of a man who raced with heart, determination, and humility. Official Site Of NASCAR+2Racing America+2
Career at a Glance
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Annett made a total of 436 starts across NASCAR’s three national touring series over a career spanning more than a decade. Sportscasting | Pure Sports+2SI+2
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He competed primarily in what is now the NASCAR Xfinity Series (formerly the Nationwide / O'Reilly Auto Parts Series), making 321 starts in that series.
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His crowning moment came in February 2019, when he captured his only national-series win at the Daytona International Speedway driving for JR Motorsports, kicking off the Xfinity season on a high note.
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Over his years in Xfinity, he recorded 95 top-10 finishes (including 19 top-5s), showing consistency and reliability as a veteran driver. Sportscasting | Pure Sports+2The Daily Downforce+2
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Annett also raced in the NASCAR Cup Series between 2014–2016, making 106 Cup starts, plus earlier stints in the Truck and ARCA series. Sportscasting | Pure Sports+2Michael Annett+2
Before fully committing to racing, Annett had a background in hockey — he played for the Waterloo Black Hawks in the USHL. He eventually switched from skates to racing suits, beginning a long motorsport journey that saw its share of ups and downs. Waterloo Black Hawks+1
Retirement & Life After the Track
In October 2021, Annett announced he would retire from full-time competition after the season. At 35, he cited persistent physical problems, especially a recurring stress fracture in his right femur that forced him to miss several races that year.
He wrapped up a career that spanned over 90,000 laps and left behind memories of grit, perseverance, and dedication both on and off the track.
The Unexpected Passing
On December 5, 2025, JR Motorsports and his management agency publicly confirmed Annett’s death. Details surrounding the cause of death have not been disclosed as of this writing.
The announcement triggered an outpouring of grief across the NASCAR world — from fellow drivers to crew members, to the fans who followed his career for years.
Tributes & Legacy
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JR Motorsports released a heartfelt statement:
“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.”
Many former teammates and rivals expressed their sorrow publicly — remembering him not just as a driver, but as a genuine, respected individual who brought positivity to the garage.
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For fans, his 2019 Daytona win remains a highlight — a tangible reminder of his talent and what he gave to the sport.
In the broader NASCAR community, Annett’s journey is seen as emblematic of resilience: from USHL hockey rinks in Iowa to high-speed ovals under bright lights, he chased his passion and carved out a career through perseverance.
The world lost him far too soon — but the memories, respect, and admiration he earned will endure.
Final Thoughts
The unexpected death of Michael Annett is a tragic moment for motorsport, especially for those who knew him personally and professionally. He was more than his stats — more than numbers on a results sheet. He was a racer with quiet determination, a teammate with integrity, and above all, a human being deserving of respect and remembrance.
As the NASCAR community reels from this loss, many will pay tribute at upcoming races. And whether you were a die-hard fan or a casual observer, his story stands as a reminder: success isn’t only about wins, but also about heart, grit, and the mark you leave on people’s lives.
Rest in peace, Michael — your laps are complete, but your legacy runs on.
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