Michael Annett, retired Xfinity racer, dies at 39

Michael Annett, a winner on the NASCAR Xfinity Series, has died at age 39.

The announcement of his death came from JR Motorsports on Friday night. No cause of death was released.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Annett family with the passing of our friend Michael Annett," the racing team posted to X. "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."

Arnett, an Iowa native, started 436 races across NASCAR's three national series. The majority of them -- 321 -- came on the Xfinity Series circuit, and he won the season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway in 2019.

It was his only race win at the NASCAR national level. He also won twice in the ARCA Menards Series.

He debuted in the Xfinity Series in 2008 and raced for Germain Racing, Rusty Wallace Racing and Richard Petty Motorsports. He also spent three seasons (2014-16) with Turner Scott Motorsports' team in the NASCAR Cup Series.

In 2017, he joined JRM and retired in 2021 after suffering a stress fracture in his leg.

Several drivers and NASCAR offered their condolences.

"Michael was a respected competitor whose determination, professionalism, and positive spirit were felt by everyone in the garage," NASCAR said in a statement. "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."

--Field Level Media