JR Motorsports announced his passing Friday evening on social media. Annett raced for the team in the Xfinity Series for five seasons, from 2017 to 2021.

Outlets reporting on the news note that the cause remains undisclosed and are urging fans not to spread unverified rumors or speculation.

Michael Annett (born June 23, 1986 – died December 2025) was an American professional stock car racing driver known for his steady presence in NASCAR’s Xfinity and Cup Series. Raised in Des Moines, Iowa, Annett originally pursued a career in hockey before switching to motorsports in his late teens. His competitive drive and natural skill quickly pushed him through the racing ranks.

Annett made his NASCAR debut in 2008 and went on to compete full-time in the Xfinity Series and later in the Cup Series. Over the course of his career, he drove for several notable teams, including Jericho Racing, HRE Motorsports, Richard Petty Motorsports, and Tommy Baldwin Racing. His longest and most successful run came with JR Motorsports, where he raced from 2017 to 2021.