Frankie Muniz Released From Hospital After Daytona Practice Crash: ‘My Mustang Did Its Job’

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Frankie Muniz has been released from the hospital after a crash in practice for Ford’s Proud to Honor Veterans Day event at Daytona International Speedway on Wednesday.

Ford said Muniz was involved in an incident during practice and was taken to a local medical facility for further evaluation. In its first update, Ford said he was “awake and alert.”

Muniz later shared his own statement after being released.

“I am disappointed I won’t be able to take part in Ford’s Proud to Honor event tonight,” Muniz said. “I was looking forward to honoring the service of our veterans and racing against these other amazing drivers.

“I am a little sore, but my Mustang did its job in protecting me. I want to thank everyone at Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, and the staff here at the hospital.

“I especially want to thank everyone who has reached out and for all the prayers.”

https://x.com/bobpockrass/status/2120681860401385905

Ford’s Proud to Honor Event

Muniz was one of 12 drivers entered in the event, with two drivers representing each branch of the U.S. military. He and Austin Cindric were set to represent the Air Force.

The format called for a 15-minute qualifying session and a 30-minute race on Daytona’s 12-turn, 3.6-mile road course, the layout used each year for IMSA’s Rolex 24 at Daytona. The race was scheduled to air Wednesday night on USA Network.

Muniz wasn’t the only Ford driver to miss the event. Ryan Blaney pulled out earlier in the week after a fall at dinner that required medical attention.

Muniz’s 2026 Season

Muniz drove full time for Ford and Team Reaume in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series this season. He also raced full time in the Pirelli GT4 America Am championship, where he and co-driver Tyler Stone won the title.

Best known for playing Malcolm on “Malcolm in the Middle,” Muniz has said many times that racing is not a hobby for him, but his true passion.

Pit This Time wishes Frankie Muniz a quick and full recovery.