Muniz, 40, was taken to a local medical facility for evaluation and was awake and alert, according to his team, Reaume Brothers Racing, which announced the incident on social media Wednesday afternoon. Ford Racing said Wednesday evening that Muniz had been released from the hospital.

In a statement, Muniz said he was "a little sore" from the incident "but my Mustang did its job in protecting me."

The crash occurred hours before the Ford Proud to Honor Veterans Classic, a six-team event at Daytona in which each team was named for a branch of the U.S. military. Muniz had been set to drive for Team Air Force alongside Austin Cindric, who went on to win the race. The Zac Brown Band performed at the event.

"I am disappointed I won't be able to take part in Ford's Proud to Honor event tonight," Muniz said. "I was looking forward to honoring the service of our veterans and racing against these other amazing drivers."

Muniz thanked Ford Racing, Daytona International Speedway, hospital staff and well-wishers for their support.

During the race broadcast, an announcer acknowledged Muniz's absence: "After a practice crash earlier today, Frankie Muniz will not start the race tonight." Jenson Altzman took Muniz's place in the No. 30 car and wrote on Instagram that he would "be sure to represent the #30 well tonight."

Muniz, an Emmy-nominated actor who rose to fame as a child star on the Fox sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle," began racing in 2004 and shifted his focus to stock car racing in 2021. He became a full-time driver with Reaume Brothers Racing in the 2025 season and also competes in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 33 Ford F-150.

The crash is a reminder of the physical risks that come with stock car racing, even in practice sessions. Daytona International Speedway, one of the sport's most storied venues, hosts events throughout the year, including the season-opening Daytona 500.

For Muniz, the incident interrupted a racing schedule that has become a central part of his public life since his acting career. He has spoken in the past about his commitment to the sport and his desire to compete at a high level.

Muniz's team did not immediately provide further details about the severity of the crash or his condition beyond the initial statements. It was not clear whether he would be cleared to compete in upcoming races.

The Ford Proud to Honor event continued Wednesday evening without Muniz, with Cindric and Team Air Force taking the win.