Michael Annett. Image via: NASCAR.com

Former NASCAR driver Michael Annett has tragically passed away at the age of 39, his former team JR Motorsports confirmed on December 5. Annett, a respected figure in the motorsport community, raced for JR Motorsports from 2017 until his retirement in 2021. During his career, he earned a victory in the 2019 Xfinity Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway, marking a major highlight in his racing journey. Details regarding the cause of his death have not yet been released.The news has left fans and colleagues in shock, with tributes pouring in across social media. Annett’s career was defined by perseverance, skill, and a dedication to racing that inspired teammates and fans alike. Over the course of his professional journey, he established himself as a key contributor to every team he joined, leaving a lasting legacy in NASCAR.

Michael Annett’s cause of death, racing career and achievements

As of writing, the cause of death of Michael Annett is under wraps. Annett began his NASCAR career in 2008, driving in the Craftsman Truck Series for Bill Davis Racing. He made seven starts that season, achieving a best finish of second at Kentucky. He then progressed to the Nationwide Series (now Xfinity Series) with Germain Racing in 2009, finishing tenth in points during his rookie season. Over the next several years, Annett drove for multiple teams including Rusty Wallace Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports, Tommy Baldwin Racing, and HScott Motorsports.His return to the Xfinity Series in 2017 with JR Motorsports revitalized his career. That year, he scored seven top-10 finishes and achieved a career-best second-place finish at Road America. Annett also qualified for the playoffs, ultimately finishing ninth in the points standings. His first and only Xfinity Series victory came in 2019 at Daytona, where he started third and led 45 laps to secure the win.

Family and community mourn Michael Annett’s untimely demise

Following the announcement, JR Motorsports released a heartfelt statement: “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.” Fans, former teammates, and NASCAR enthusiasts expressed their grief online, praising Annett for his dedication and contributions to the sport.Annett’s career was ultimately cut short due to a stress fracture in his right femur in 2021, which forced him to miss several races and led to his retirement. Despite the early conclusion to his racing career, Michael Annett’s influence on NASCAR remains significant, and his memory will continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.Also Read: “Complicated from beginning to end”: Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas breakup mystery deepens as his mum points to injuries and emotional struggles