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 on Wednesday night at Daytona’s road course in Florida.
In a statement before the event, Muniz expressed his disappointment, stating, “I am saddened that I won’t be able to participate in Ford’s Proud to Honor event tonight. I was eager to honor the service of our veterans and race alongside these other incredible drivers.”
Muniz mentioned feeling “a bit sore,” but he credited the Mustang he was driving for providing him with adequate protection.
“I want to extend my gratitude to everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the hospital staff,” Muniz said. “I especially appreciate all those who have 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 that supports six non-profit organizations aiding U.S. military and veteran communities through the Proud to Honor Fund.
From Actor to Driver
Muniz earned 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 has also starred in movies such as Big Fat Liar, Deuces Wild, Agent Cody Banks, and Racing Stripes.
As noted on his website, Muniz took a break from the entertainment industry in 2006 to focus on professional race-car driving.
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 started competing in the Formula BMW USA Championship and subsequently raced 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 the 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.