On Friday night, NASCAR fans learned that former Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett passed away at the age of 39.
Annett, an Iowa native, was a two-time winner in the ARCA Menards Series before making the jump to the NASCAR Truck Series in 2008. Six years later, he found himself competing in the Cup Series. That being said, the biggest win of his career came in the Xfinity Series when he came in first place in the Racing Experience 300 at Daytona.
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“NASCAR is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former NASCAR driver Michael Annett,” NASCAR said in a statement. “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. NASCAR extends its condolences to Michael’s family and many friends.”
The cause of death has not been revealed.
Nov 6, 2021; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett (1) races during the Xfinity Championship at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
NASCAR community devastated by this news.
“RIP Michael Annett,” one person said. “While he had a long career, I’ll remember most his wins in ARCA at Talladega and Daytona. That #28 Pilot Toyota, so early in his career, he made a great first impression off those ARCA wins.”
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“My condolences to Michael’s family and friends,” a fan wrote.
“This is so sad,” a second fan added. “Prayers to the Annett family.”
“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,” Ricky Stenhouse Jr. wrote on social media.
“Gonna miss the first driver I worked with in NASCAR right out of college at Jr Motorsports,” Eric Long of JR Motorsports commented. “We won our very first race, the 2019 season opener at Daytona. Michael was such a good dude and man did we have some fun time.”
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There’s no question the NASCAR community will never forget about Annett.
May he rest in peace.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Dec 6, 2025, where it first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
