Former TV star Frankie Muniz has been diligently working to improve as a NASCAR driver and has been giving it his all in the NASCAR Truck Series this year. But a "freak" accident has sadly left him injured.
On Thursday, Muniz announced that he will be forced to withdraw from this week's race in Darlington and may be out for many more weeks due to an injury he suffered at home. Muniz revealed that he fell off the top of a ladder and sustained a distal radius fracture.
"The phrase "FML" (Frankie Muniz's Life) takes on new meaning with moments like these. I'm disappointed to share that I won’t be racing at Darlington this weekend or for the next few weeks due to a distal radius fracture. Yesterday, I fell from the top of a ladder while changing the batteries in a Ring camera in my backyard. Note to self: heed the ladder warning that says, "Do not sit or stand on top step." In hindsight, a taller ladder would’ve been smarter. While I’m gutted to miss the races, I’m grateful it wasn’t worse. I feel for my team, who’ve poured their hearts into this season, and I’m thankful for @FordPerformance and their unwavering support. The doctor estimates a 6-8 week recovery, so I’ll be back in the driver’s seat as soon as I’m cleared," Muniz wrote on X.
The phrase "FML" (Frankie Muniz's Life) takes on new meaning with moments like these. I'm disappointed to share that I won’t be racing at Darlington this weekend or for the next few weeks due to a distal radius fracture. Yesterday, I fell from the top of a ladder while changing… pic.twitter.com/oARhPDJpxT
— Frankie Muniz (@frankiemuniz) August 28, 2025
Shortly after Muniz made his announcement, his Reaume Brothers Racing team confirmed that there is "no timeline for his return" and that Mason Maggio would be replacing him in the No. 33 truck at Darlington.
"Frankie Muniz was involved in an accident at his home in Arizona yesterday morning where he suffered a distal radius fracture in his wrist. Currently there is no timeline for his return, our focus is on a speedy recovery and competing together again soon," RBR said in a statement on X.
"Mason Maggio will race the No. 33 this weekend in place of Frankie."
A distal radius fracture is one of the most common types of broken bones, occurring when the radius (the larger of the two forearm bones) breaks near the wrist. The “distal” part simply refers to the end of the bone closest to the hand.
Treatment depends on how severe the break is. Many fractures can be managed with a cast or splint, while more complex cases may require surgery with plates, pins, or screws to keep the bone aligned. With proper care, most people recover full function, especially when followed by physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
Based on Muniz's 6-8 weeks estimate from his doctor, it sounds like his 2025 racing season might be ending a little earlier than anticipated.
We wish Muniz all the best in his recovery.
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