Actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz has been discharged from the hospital after a crash during practice laps at Daytona International Speedway.
The 40-year-old, known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle, was practicing for a benefit race honoring veterans, which occurred on Wednesday evening at Daytona’s road course in Florida.
“I am saddened that I won’t be able to participate in Ford’s Proud to Honor event tonight,” Muniz expressed in a statement prior to the race. “I was eager to pay tribute to the sacrifices of our veterans and compete alongside these exceptional drivers.”
Muniz mentioned feeling “a bit sore,” but acknowledged that the Mustang he was driving effectively safeguarded him.
“I want to express my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the hospital staff,” Muniz noted. “I especially appreciate all the support and prayers from everyone who reached out.”
Muniz and NASCAR driver Austin Cindric were scheduled to represent Team Air Force in an exhibition race, which supports six non-profit organizations aiding U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund, as stated in a NASCAR announcement.
From Actor to Driver
Muniz earned an Emmy nomination and received two Golden Globe nominations for his performance in Malcolm in the Middle, establishing himself as one of the most recognized child actors of his era. He has also starred in films like Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
As per his official website, Muniz stepped away from the entertainment industry in 2006 to chase a career in professional race car driving.
Frankie Muniz is pictured racing during qualifying for a NASCAR truck series event 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 competed in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship from 2007 to 2009. Muniz finished fourth in the 2009 championship standings, but a season-ending injury led to multiple surgeries, according to his website.
In 2024, Muniz participated in 38 races within both the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts and truck series.
Over the past three years, he has taken part in 117 truck series races, achieving one Top 10 finish at Daytona in 2025.
