Former NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett passed away on Friday at the age of 39, with his former team JR Motorsports releasing a touching statement
Annett clocked in 106 starts for three different teams over the course of three Cup Series seasons(Image: Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
Former NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett passed away on Friday at the tender age of 39.
He clocked in 106 starts for three different teams over the course of three Cup Series seasons. Annett’s colleague and past rival Brad Keselowski expressed relief that Annette is “no longer suffering” following his sudden demise. His previous team, JR Motorsports, also issued a heartfelt statement.
Annett last posted on social media on December 7, sharing a snapshot of his old racing suit bearing the name of the late Bill Davis. “Bill was so special to a lot of people, and I’m so happy I got to be one of them,” Annett penned alongside the post. Davis, who passed away earlier this year at 74, is enshrined in the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
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The veteran team owner managed a squad that included big names like Jeff Burton, Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon, and Annett during his extensive career, reports the Express US.
“NASCAR is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former NASCAR driver Michael Annett,” NASCAR announced in a statement after news broke of Annett’s death.
“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.”
Michael Annett passed away at the age of 39(Image: Getty Images)
Keselowski also left a warm message for Annett’s family.” I remember this day vividly. Michael was an up and comer at the same time I was and he was looking really good,” he wrote.
“In the end, Life took us different paths and all of us who knew him and the talent he had are sad to see him go, but glad he is no longer suffering. #RIPMichael.”
Annett’s career highlight
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Annett’s career highlight came in 2019, when he captured the 2019 NASCAR Racing Experience 300 at the Daytona Motor Speedway.
His best single-race finish in the Cup Series was a 13th-place showing.
Annett finished in the top 10 of the Xfinity Series standings on three occasions.
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