Actor-Turned-Race-Car-Driver Navigates New Challenges
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Frankie Muniz, known for his role in “Malcolm in the Middle,” is gearing up for his Xfinity Series debut at Daytona International Speedway. The 38-year-old actor-turned-race-car-driver faced some confusion as he arrived early for the drivers’ meeting, unaware of the time difference.
Muniz shared his offseason struggles with The Associated Press, highlighting the ups and downs of finalizing his racing plans for 2024. Despite setbacks, Muniz is set to race for Joey Gase Racing in the No. 35 Ford, aiming to qualify for the challenging Xfinity Series race on Saturday.
Learning Curve Ahead
With limited time to prepare, Muniz emphasized his need to adapt quickly to the new environment. He acknowledged the competitive field in the Xfinity Series and the learning curve he faces, especially in live pit stops, a new experience since his ARCA Series days.
Muniz’s past racing experience in the ARCA Series saw him leading the points standings and finishing fourth despite mechanical issues. Now, the challenge lies in proving himself in a more competitive arena, where he believes every driver is skilled and the competition is fierce.
From Hollywood to the Racetrack
While Muniz’s acting background sets him apart in the NASCAR world, he is determined to showcase his racing skills on track. Drawing parallels between his racing journey and starting at a new school, Muniz is eager to earn respect and acceptance in the NASCAR community.
Despite the uncertainties ahead, Muniz remains optimistic about his racing career progression, emphasizing his determination to succeed in the Xfinity Series.
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