The motorsport world was stunned by the sudden passing of Michael Annett, a dedicated stock car racing driver whose career spanned over a decade in NASCAR’s competitive circuits. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, on June 23, 1986, he left an indelible mark on the sport before his untimely death on December 5, 2025, at the age of 39. While the exact cause remains undisclosed, his legacy endures through memorable victories and a resilient spirit that carried him from local tracks to national prominence.
Annett’s journey in racing was marked by perseverance, transitioning from a promising hockey background to becoming a full-time competitor in NASCAR’s Xfinity and Cup Series. His career, which included 436 national series starts, showcased his talent in high-stakes environments, culminating in a notable win at Daytona International Speedway. As we reflect on his contributions in 2025, his financial standing also highlights the rewards of a life dedicated to speed and sponsorships.
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From Hockey to High-Speed Racing
Before embracing the roar of engines, Michael Annett excelled on the ice as a defenseman for the Waterloo Black Hawks in the United States Hockey League. In 2004, he helped the team secure the Clark Cup championship and earned recognition as the most improved player, sharing the roster with future NHL star Joe Pavelski. However, at 5’10” and around 180 pounds, he recognized the physical limitations for advancing in professional hockey, prompting a pivot to motorsports after high school.
His entry into racing began modestly at tracks like Hawkeye Downs in Iowa, quickly progressing to the American Speed Association series. With support from his father, Harrold Annett, the CEO of TMC Transportation—a company that sponsored much of his early endeavors—Michael honed his skills. By 2007, he notched victories in the ARCA Menards Series, winning at Talladega Superspeedway and later at Daytona in 2008. These triumphs paved the way for his NASCAR debut, where he balanced raw talent with the demands of sponsorship-driven competition.
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Achievements and Financial Success
Michael Annett’s NASCAR tenure was defined by steady performances across multiple series. In the Xfinity Series, formerly known as the Nationwide Series, he competed in 321 races from 2008 to 2021, securing one victory in the 2019 season opener at Daytona while driving for JR Motorsports, co-owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. He achieved 95 top-ten finishes and one pole position, with his best championship standing being fifth in 2012 under Richard Petty Motorsports. In the Cup Series, he ran 106 races between 2014 and 2016, highlighted by a 13th-place finish in the 2015 Daytona 500.
We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of former Xfinity Series driver Michael Annett at the age of 39.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Annett family in this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/j01CCbbQFp
— Xfinity Racing (@XfinityRacing) December 6, 2025
Beyond the Xfinity and Cup circuits, Annett dabbled in the Truck Series with nine starts, earning a runner-up spot at Kentucky in 2008. Injuries posed challenges, including a sternum fracture in 2013 and a recurring leg issue—a stress fracture in his right femur—that sidelined him in 2021 and led to his retirement from full-time racing that October. Post-retirement, he remained connected to the sport through commentary and family ties.
Financially, Michael Annett amassed considerable wealth through his racing endeavors, drawing from contracts, endorsements, and partnerships. Estimates of his net worth in 2025, at the time of his passing, range from $5 million to $10 million, reflecting income from NASCAR salaries, sponsorships like those from his family’s business, and brand deals. This figure underscores the lucrative side of professional racing for those who navigate its highs and hurdles effectively. His story, cut short in 2025, serves as a reminder of the passion and risks inherent in pursuing speed at the highest levels.
