Frankie Muniz, the actor perhaps best remembered for his starring role in the TV series “Malcolm in the Middle,” is taking on a challenge of a different nature in 2023. The actor will become a full-time racecar driver in the NASCAR-sanctioned ARCA Menards Series.
Muniz will drive the Number 30 Ford Mustang as the only entry fielded by Rette Jones Racing. The team is co-owned by Mark Rette and Terry Jones, the latter of whom is a former competitor in the ARCA Menards Series.
“2023 is set up to be one of the most memorable seasons for Rette Jones Racing since our inception in 2016,” said Jones. “Without a doubt, we believe in Frankie’s ability and commitment and with Mark’s leadership we believe that he will quickly adapt on track and contend for a championship in his rookie season.”
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Although this will be his rookie season in NASCAR, Muniz does have experience in motorsport. As far back as 2006, he raced in the Formula BMW USA Championship, following that up with a stint in the ChampCar Atlantic Championship, before a big wreck forced him out of the series. Muniz now says he’s excited to be given this opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream.
“It’s with the utmost excitement, optimism and gratitude that I’m joining Rette Jones Racing for the full ARCA Menards Series schedule this year,” said Muniz. “Ever since childhood, it’s been my dream to pursue racing in NASCAR, and it was important for me to partner with a team that aligned with my long-term objectives and vision, while providing every opportunity imaginable to grow mentally and physically as a full-time race car driver.”
The actor will make his debut at the Daytona International Speedway on February 18, 2023, and the series will then run until October 7. Over the course of the season, the drivers will have to compete in a total of 20 races.
“Ford is pleased to welcome Frankie Muniz to our performance family. Frankie is not only a successful actor, but also a skilled and enthusiastic racer,” commented Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “He is dedicated to continue growing as a professional stock car racer, and we believe he will make a valuable contribution to the ARCA program at Rette Jones Racing.”