Michael Annett: 10 things you never knew about NASCAR star who died at 39

Michael Annett’s passing at just 39 has prompted fans everywhere to dig deeper into the story of the soft-spoken Iowa native who built a respected racing career through determination, grit, and an unwavering love for competition. Beyond the statistics and the spotlight, here are 10 things that truly defined Michael Annett — both as an athlete and as a person.

1. He Was an Athlete Before He Ever Touched a Race Car

Long before NASCAR became his calling, Annett was a rising star in ice hockey. As a defenseman for the Waterloo Black Hawks, he earned the “Most Improved Player” award in 2004 and even helped the team win the Clark Cup, skating alongside future NHL star Joe Pavelski. Racing wasn’t the first dream — but it became the one he couldn’t let go of.

2. His Racing Career Started With Family Roots in Transportation

Annett grew up around engines and logistics. His late father, Harrold Annett, served as CEO of TMC Transportation, a company that would later sponsor much of Michael’s racing journey. The Annett family name was familiar in motorsports long before Michael strapped into a full-time stock car.

3. He Made His National-Series Debut in 2008 — and Never Looked Back

After testing the waters in lower racing divisions, Annett jumped into the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2008. What began as a few starts soon turned into a full-time commitment that shaped the next decade-plus of his life.

4. His 2012 Season Remains One of His Most Impressive

Driving for Richard Petty Motorsports, Annett had a breakout year:

• 6 top-five finishes

• 17 top-tens

  
  
  

• 5th in the championship standings
  It was the season that confirmed he belonged among the strongest competitors in the series.

5. His Biggest Career Moment Came at Daytona in 2019

Every driver dreams of winning at Daytona — and Annett did just that. In 2019, behind the wheel of JR Motorsports’ No. 1 Chevrolet, he captured his first and only NASCAR national-series victory at the iconic Daytona International Speedway. It remains the crown jewel of his career.

6. He Survived Multiple Serious Injuries and Still Kept Racing

Annett’s career came with painful chapters, including a fractured and dislocated sternum in 2013 after slamming head-on into the wall at Daytona. Later, in 2021, a stress fracture in his right leg sidelined him for several races. Despite these setbacks, he pushed through each one with a fighter’s mentality.

7. He Competed in 436 National-Series Races

Across the Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series, Annett made 436 combined starts, a testament to both his longevity and his work ethic. He may not have had the biggest budget or flashiest equipment, but he showed up — consistently — for 14 years.

8. He Quietly Became a Pillar at JR Motorsports

When Annett joined JR Motorsports in 2017, few predicted he would become such an important part of the team’s evolution. He competed in 158 races with them and contributed to growing the organization into the four-car powerhouse it is today.

9. His Friends and Teammates Knew Him as “Diesel Mike”

Away from the cameras, Annett was known for his calm personality, dry humor, and heavy loyalty to those around him. Noah Gragson and other teammates often referred to him as “Diesel Mike” — a nickname that reflected his slow-burn toughness and dependable energy.

10. His Legacy Extends Beyond His Results

Annett may not have collected dozens of trophies, but he gained something more meaningful: respect. NASCAR officials, team owners, and fellow drivers described him as professional, steady, and kind — a competitor who carried himself with integrity. Even after retiring in 2021, he remained a beloved figure in the garage.