Michael Annett became well-known to NASCAR fans when he won the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
A post from JR Motorsports on Facebook confirmed on December 6 that Annett has died at the age of 39. How did Michael Annett die? His cause of death is not clear, but fans filled social media with tributes and expressed shock that he died so young.
And a fellow race car driver wrote that Annett was suffering before his death. "I remember this day vividly. Michael was an up and comer at the same time I was and he was looking really good," driver Brad Keselowski shared, along with a photo of Annett.
"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."
"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," the JR Motorsports post read.
NASCAR also confirmed Annett's death.
“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.”
NASCAR noted that Annett signed with JRM co-owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. in 2017.
Annett was an ice hockey player before switching to auto racing.
Driver Sammy Smith also wrote a tribute on X. "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," the post says.
Fans expressed shock on JR Motorsports' Facebook page. "Wait, what? I’m speechless. Way too young. My condolences to the family and friends of Michael. I’m truly sorry for your loss," wrote one.
"This is heartbreaking. I watched Annett race in the Xfinity series and I can’t believe he’s gone," wrote another person.
His dad, Harrold Annett, died in 2021; the cause of death for the father was a rare disease. According to NASCAR, Harrold Annett "previously served as CEO of TMC Transportation, which sponsored much of Annett’s racing efforts."
Michael Annett, who was from Iowa, "Annett made 436 combined starts across NASCAR’s three national touring series, making a name for himself most prominently in the Xfinity Series," NASCAR noted.