Frankie Muniz announces lifelong dream career change in NASCAR racing series

Frankie Muniz has announced his lifelong dream career change as a NASCAR racing driver.

Most of you will know the actor as the former child star who appeared as the titular character in Malcolm in the Middle.

But last year, he made a bit of a career u-turn by announcing his launch into the world of stock car racing.

His hopes were to make it into the NASCAR division with an end goal of hitting the Cup series one day.

And it looks like he's well on his way, as it was revealed today, January 11, that he's going to be driving full-time in the NASCAR-owned ARCA Series.

Muniz will be behind the wheel of the No 30 Ford Mustang for Rette Jones Racing, competing in the ARCA Menards Series championship, which starts at the Daytona International Speedway on February 18.

In a press release shared by ARCA, the 37-year-old star said: "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.

"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.

"I look forward to not only demonstrating my ability on the track and just how serious how I am in progressing in my racing career, but also showing my son and family what it is to chase your dreams and re-invent yourself."

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Although his Malcolm in the Middle character struggled his way through his teens, the same certainly can't be said for Muniz, who doesn't hold back when he's got a goal he wants to achieve.

ARCA went on to describe how he had been involved in discussions for months with various stakeholders in the NASCAR world before finally going on to sign with the team, which is co-owned by Motorsports veteran Terry Jones and former ARCA championship crew chief Mark Rette.

Commenting on the news, Rette said: "We are very excited to welcome Frankie Muniz to the Rette Jones Racing family for the full 2023 ARCA Menards Series schedule.

"Over the years, we’ve prided ourselves on working with new drivers who have quickly adapted to the diversity of the ARCA Menards Series and, without a doubt, we believe Frankie can do the same.

"It is not going to be easy, and there will be a learning curve. But with his passion, focus and commitment along with the capabilities of our team, we believe we are going to put him in a position to contend for multiple wins in 2023.

"Furthermore, we’re excited that, because of Frankie’s profile, new audiences and fans will be introduced to the sport and Rette Jones Racing."

Meanwhile, Jones said: "2023 is set up to be one of the most memorable seasons for Rette Jones Racing since our inception in 2016.

Instagram/@frankiemuniz4

"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."

Muniz's first experience on a major speedway took place earlier last year, when he drove an ARCA for Fast Track Racing, bagging himself a fastest lap time of 51.796 seconds (173.759mph).

Speaking about the feat, he said: "I like to say now that I am acting on the side. I want racing to be my focus. It's one of those things you have to do 100 percent.

“You can't just do it halfway. If I want to make it to any level of NASCAR — ARCA, Trucks, whatever it is — I'm racing against people who have been doing it since they were six years old, and I've gotta do it quickly."

Here's hoping he's able to prove his skills when the series kicks off next month.