Muniz is set to make his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut at Daytona, driving the No. 35 Joey Gase Motorsports Ford Mustang. While he isn’t guaranteed a spot and will need to qualify, this marks the beginning of what is expected to be a series of NXS races for Muniz this year, with Ford Performance sponsoring the endeavor.
The accomplished American actor, known for his role in the acclaimed sitcom “Malcolm in the Middle,” where he earned Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominations, has ventured into racing, a passion of his for years.
Muniz previously attempted to enter the open-wheel racing scene in the mid-2000s, spending three years in the Champ Car Atlantic Series, achieving notable success with a fourth-place finish and ending the 2009 season ninth in the championship.
Transitioning to stock car racing in 2023, Muniz embarked on a full-time journey in the ARCA Menards Series, finishing his rookie season impressively in fourth place in the championship standings.
Throughout the season, he demonstrated his prowess with one top-five and 11 top-ten finishes in 20 starts, with a notable fifth-place finish at Michigan.
The No. 35 car, previously driven in a joint effort by Gase and Patrick Emerling, saw its best result under Gase’s command, finishing ninth at Talladega last year.
Expressing gratitude for the support received from Ford and Ford Performance throughout his NASCAR journey, Muniz eagerly anticipates his Xfinity Series debut at Daytona International Speedway.
In a press release, he stated, “I am very fortunate to have the unwavering support of Ford and Ford Performance through my NASCAR journey, and I am very humbled yet excited to be teamed up with Joey Gase Motorsports to attempt my NASCAR Xfinity Series debut next weekend at Daytona International Speedway.”
Gase, in turn, welcomed Muniz to the team, highlighting his determination and focus, stating, “Joey Gase Motorsports is proud to welcome Frankie to the team. Undoubtedly, he brings a lot of attention to our team and the NASCAR Xfinity Series, but throughout the last couple of weeks, I’ve never seen a driver more determined or focused than Frankie. He will be an asset to our program this season, and I look forward to joining him as a teammate in our No. 53 National Crime Prevention Council car at Daytona.”