Former NASCAR driver Michael Annett dies at 39

Former NASCAR driver Michael Annett has died at the age of 39, according to an announcement from his former team, JR Motorsports.

The team confirmed his passing Friday, with NASCAR.com also reporting the news. Annett, who retired in 2021, was widely respected within the racing community for his consistency, professionalism, and strong presence in the Xfinity Series.

Details surrounding Annett’s cause of death have not been publicly disclosed. Fellow driver Brad Keselowski shared a message on X, saying he was “glad he is no longer suffering,” suggesting Annett may have faced ongoing health challenges.

Annett began his Xfinity Series career in 2008 and went full-time the following year. Over the course of his career, he completed 321 Xfinity starts and spent three seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series with Turner Scott Motorsports from 2014 to 2016. His most notable achievement came in 2019 when he secured a major victory at the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway, marking the highlight of his tenure with JR Motorsports.

He made 158 starts with JR Motorsports after joining the team in 2017. A stress fracture sidelined him during the 2021 season, ultimately leading to his retirement from professional racing.

Before entering motorsports, Annett was a talented athlete in another field—he played defense for the Tier I junior ice hockey team Waterloo Black Hawks.

Michael Annett leaves behind a legacy of determination and sportsmanship. He is remembered by fans, teammates, and competitors across the racing world.