DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Frankie Muniz, best known for playing the title character on Malcolm in the Middle, has been released from the hospital after a crash during a practice lap at Daytona International Speedway.
The 40-year-old actor-turned-race-car driver was preparing for Ford’s Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic, a charity exhibition race scheduled for Wednesday night. Muniz was unable to compete after the crash.
In a statement reported by The Associated Press, Muniz said he was disappointed to miss the event but was grateful for the support he received. He described himself as a little sore and credited the Mustang he was driving with protecting him.
Muniz thanked Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, hospital staff and the people who reached out with messages and prayers.
A charity race honoring veterans
Muniz had been scheduled to represent Team Air Force alongside NASCAR driver Austin Cindric. The exhibition was part of Ford’s Proud to Honor program and supports six nonprofit organizations serving military members and veterans.
The event paired Ford Racing drivers in Mustang Dark Horse cars, with teams representing branches of the U.S. military. Muniz said he had been looking forward to honoring veterans and competing with the other drivers.
From Hollywood to the racetrack
Muniz became a household name as the star of Malcolm in the Middle, earning an Emmy nomination and two Golden Globe nominations. He also appeared in movies including Agent Cody Banks, Big Fat Liar and Racing Stripes.
But acting wasn’t his only passion. Muniz stepped away from much of the entertainment business to pursue professional racing, competing in open-wheel and stock-car series before making his way into NASCAR.
According to the AP, Muniz has competed in 117 NASCAR Truck Series races over the past three years. He recorded a top-10 finish at Daytona in 2025.
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Source: The Associated Press.