Daytona Beach, Fla. – Frankie Muniz, the former TV star turned racing competitor, was rushed to a nearby medical facility on Wednesday after crashing during a practice lap for the “Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic” at Daytona International Speedway. The incident occurred while Muniz was preparing for the benefit race that supports military‑related charities.
Accident and immediate response
According to a statement from Ford Racing, which fields Muniz in its 12‑driver lineup, the actor‑driver was “awake and alert” after the crash. “Frankie Muniz was involved in an incident while practicing for today’s Proud to Honor event at Daytona International Speedway. He was transported to a local medical facility for further evaluation,” the team said. Ford also confirmed that Muniz will not be competing in the evening’s race.
Event details and charitable purpose
The “Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic” is a special exhibition on the Speedway’s road course, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. The race features drivers representing each branch of the U.S. armed forces, with proceeds benefiting six nonprofit organizations that serve veterans and military families. Half of ticket sales will also support Blue Star Families, a well‑known veterans‑service group.
Team Reaume echoed Ford’s statement on social media, thanking supporters and asking for privacy for Muniz while he recovers. Entertainment Tonight, which had a crew on site and was set to interview Muniz, reported that the track was not yet open to the public at the time of the accident.
Participating drivers and military representation
- U.S. Army: Brad Keselowski, Joey Hand
- U.S. Marine Corps: Robert Noaker, Ben Hobson
- U.S. Navy: Ryan Preece, Logan Sargeant
- U.S. Space Force: Noah Gragson, Layne Riggs
- U.S. Coast Guard: Joey Logano, Ty Majeski
Muniz was slated to race alongside Austin Cindric, representing Team Air Force. The event also includes musical performances and a special appearance by actor Bryan Cranston, who played Muniz’s on‑screen father in “Malcolm in the Middle.”
Next steps
Medical officials have not released a detailed prognosis, but Ford Racing confirmed Muniz is conscious and responsive. Updates will be provided as they become available. The race will proceed without Muniz, with the remaining drivers competing to raise funds for the veteran‑focused charities.
Fans of Muniz and the broader racing community are encouraged to follow official team channels for the latest information and to support the charitable mission of the Veterans Day Classic.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
