Michael Annett, a former NASCAR driver best known for his years in the Xfinity Series, has died at the age of 39. JR Motorsports — the team he raced with for much of his career — announced his passing on social media on Friday, prompting tributes from across the racing community.
NASCAR described Annett as a driver respected for his determination, professionalism, and positive spirit, qualities that defined his decade-long presence across the sport’s top divisions.
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. https://t.co/oZdMymjBz6 pic.twitter.com/PUsCZHkXEg
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) December 6, 2025
A Look at Michael Annett’s NASCAR Career
Annett made 436 combined starts across NASCAR’s three national touring series — including 321 starts in the Xfinity Series, where he built his strongest legacy.
Key Career Highlights:
- 158 starts with JR Motorsports
- 2019 Xfinity Series season opener winner at Daytona International Speedway
- Two ARCA Menards Series victories:
- Talladega (2007)
- Daytona (2008)
His 2019 Daytona win remains one of the standout moments of his career, marking his first and only Xfinity Series victory.
A stress fracture in his leg in 2021 hampered much of his final season, and he later announced his retirement the same year. In his retirement message, Annett expressed deep gratitude to the teams, sponsors and supporters who shaped his journey in motorsports.
Before racing, Annett was also an accomplished hockey player, skating for the Waterloo Black Hawks in the USHL before transitioning fully into motorsports.
Michael Annett’s Family and Early Life
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, Michael was the son of Harrold Wayne Annett and Deborah Annett. His father, who passed away in 2021, served as CEO of TMC Transportation, a major sponsor of Annett’s racing career.
Coming from a family deeply connected to motorsports, Annett once shared that his parents scheduled his C-section birth around a race weekend — a reflection of how racing shaped his life from the beginning.
His extended family includes: Toby Lawless (Janice), Tim Annett (Brenda), Todd Annett (Amy), Jennifer Ruble (Bob), Jason Webb (Colleen), Jaimi Webb, and Emily Annett.
Annett previously dated Heidi Spillane in 2013, though he generally kept most aspects of his personal life private.
Michael Annett’s Net Worth
Financial outlets estimate Michael Annett’s net worth between $5 million and $10 million, accumulated through:
- Long-term NASCAR contracts
- Sponsorship deals
- Consistent performance across major racing divisions
His tenure with well-funded teams and strong backing from TMC Transportation contributed significantly to his financial success.
A Respected Competitor Remembered
Michael Annett leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, sportsmanship and a passion for racing that began in childhood and carried him through hundreds of professional starts. He remained closely tied to his Iowa roots and the NASCAR community long after his retirement.
NASCAR, JR Motorsports and fans across the country continue to share tributes to honor his memory.
