The NASCAR industry reacted this weekend to the death of former Xfinity Series winner Michael Annett.
In a statement Friday evening, NASCAR communications staff confirmed that Annett, who turned 39 last June, had died at age 39. No cause of death was provided.
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“NASCAR is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former NASCAR driver Michael Annett,” the statement said. “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 his many friends.”
Annett raced in the Xfinity Series from 2008 to 2021, including full-time from 2009 to 2013 with Germain Racing, Rusty Wallace Racing and Richard Petty Motorsports. After competing in the NASCAR Cup Series from 2014 to 2016 for Tommy Baldwin Jr. and HScott Motorsports, Annett returned to Xfinity and raced full-time for JR Motorsports from 2017 to 2021.
The Des Moines, Iowa native’s lone Xfinity victory came in the 2019 season opener at Daytona International Speedway, driving the No. 1 JR Motorsports Chevrolet. He finished a career-best fifth in the 2012 Xfinity points standings, and had 19 top-five finishes and 95 top-10 finishes in 321 series starts. He also had two ARCA victories in 2008-09.
As word spread, prominent NASCAR drivers and teams took to social media to remember Annett, including the 2012 Cup champion. Brad Keselowski And JR Motorsports.
