Actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz has been discharged from a hospital after experiencing a crash during practice laps at Daytona International Speedway.
The 40-year-old, known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle, was preparing for a Veterans Day charity race held Wednesday night at the road course in Daytona, Florida.
“I am saddened that I won’t be able to participate in Ford’s Proud to Honor event this evening,” Muniz stated in a release prior to the event. “I was eager to pay tribute to our veterans and compete alongside these incredible drivers.”
Muniz mentioned he felt “a bit sore,” but acknowledged that the Mustang he was operating successfully protected him during the incident.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the hospital staff,” Muniz added. “I am especially thankful to all those who have reached out and for the many prayers.”
Muniz was scheduled to team up with NASCAR driver Austin Cindric to represent Team Air Force in a showcase race that benefits six non-profit organizations supporting U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund, as per a NASCAR announcement.
From Actor to Driver
Muniz received an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations for his performance in Malcolm in the Middle, establishing himself as one of the most recognized child actors of his generation. He also featured in movies such as Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
As stated on his official website, Muniz took a break from acting in 2006 to focus on a career in professional racing.
Frankie Muniz is seen racing during qualifying for a NASCAR truck series auto race at Daytona International Speedway, in Daytona Beach, Fla., on Feb. 14, 2025. (Phelan M. Ebenhack/The Associated Press)
He began his racing career in the Formula BMW USA Championship and subsequently participated in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship from 2007 to 2009. Muniz achieved fourth place in the 2009 championship standings, but a season-ending injury required multiple surgeries, as noted on his website.
In 2024, Muniz competed in 38 races each in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts and trucks series.
Over the past three years, he has participated in 117 truck series races, achieving one Top 10 finish at Daytona in 2025.
