Actor and race car driver Frankie Muniz has been discharged from a hospital after experiencing a crash during a practice lap at Daytona International Speedway.
The 40-year-old, known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle, was preparing for a benefit race honoring Veterans Day, which occurred Wednesday evening on Daytona’s road course in Florida.
“I am saddened that I cannot 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 our veterans and compete alongside these remarkable drivers.”
Muniz mentioned that he felt “a bit sore,” but noted that the Mustang he was driving effectively protected him during the incident.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the hospital staff,” Muniz added. “A special thank you to everyone who has reached out and offered their prayers.”
According to a NASCAR announcement, Muniz and NASCAR driver Austin Cindric were scheduled to represent Team Air Force in an exhibition race benefitting six non-profit organizations that assist U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund.
From Actor to Racer
Muniz received an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations for his role in Malcolm in the Middle and was among the most recognized child actors of his generation. He has also starred in films such as Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
As stated on his 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 later competed in the Champ Car Atlantic Championship from 2007 to 2009. Muniz finished fourth in the championship standings in 2009, but a season-ending injury led to multiple surgeries, according to his website.
In 2024, Muniz participated in 38 races each in 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.