The motorsports world is in mourning following the sudden passing of American racing driver Michael Annett. He was 39 years old. The cause of his death has not been disclosed. Annett, a respected figure in stock car racing, competed across NASCAR's premier national series before retiring in 2021.
A Steadfast Career Across NASCAR Series
Michael Annett's professional journey in NASCAR was marked by consistency and dedication. He raced full-time in the elite NASCAR Cup Series from 2014 to 2016, making 106 starts. His best finish in this top tier was a notable 13th place at the prestigious Daytona 500 in 2015.
However, it was in the NASCAR Xfinity Series where he built a substantial legacy. Annett competed in 321 races between 2008 and 2021. He spent several successful seasons with the renowned JR Motorsports team, owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. His sole NASCAR national series victory came in 2019 at Daytona International Speedway, driving for JRM. His highest championship finish was fifth place in 2012 while driving for Richard Petty Motorsports.
Early Success and Final Races
Annett also showed promise in the NASCAR Truck Series, though he only made nine starts. In 2008 at Kentucky, he delivered an impressive performance, finishing a close second, just half a second behind winner Johnny Benson Jr.
His talent was evident early on in ARCA racing, where he secured wins at major tracks like Talladega in 2007 and Daytona in 2008. Annett's final national NASCAR race took place in 2021 at Phoenix, where he finished 11th. His final season was hampered by a stress fracture in his right femur, which caused him to miss several events.
An Outpouring of Grief from the Racing Community
The news of his death has triggered an emotional wave of tributes from teams, colleagues, and friends within the tight-knit racing community.
JR Motorsports released a statement honouring him: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Annett family with the passing of our friend Michael Annett. 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."
Fellow driver Sammy Smith expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, "Very sad to lose someone who meant so much to me and my family. Michael was a great person to so many, and we’ll miss him a lot."
His talent agency, RSMG, posted, "We are sad to have lost a family member. Michael Annett will always be in our hearts. Our thoughts are with the Annett family at this time. Rest in peace MA."
NASCAR driver Landon Cassill recalled a personal memory: "RIP Michael Annett - I was on the radio with him at Hawkeye Downs Speedway the first time he drove a big car on asphalt. Life is precious."
Other notable tributes came from Noah Gragson, who wrote, "Love you, diesel Mike. Will always cherish my time with you buddy!" and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who remembered their time together: "Sad to get the news of Big Mikes passing. Raced each other for a long time coming up through ARCA together. Spent a lot of days in the gym together before he retired."
The legacy of Michael Annett is that of a determined and beloved competitor whose career spanned over a decade, leaving a lasting impression on teams, fans, and fellow drivers.
