After years of chasing his dream of becoming a professional race car driver, Frankie Muniz finally has a victory to celebrate.
Muniz earned the first professional racing win of his career Friday at Road America, taking the Am class victory in the Pirelli GT4 America Series alongside co-driver Tyler Stone. The duo drove the No. 30 TechSport Racing Ford Mustang GT4 to the historic result.
The victory was a major milestone for Muniz, who has spent years building a second career in motorsports after becoming famous as an actor. While Muniz has competed in several different racing series, including NASCAR, a professional victory had remained out of reach.
That finally changed at one of his favorite tracks.
Stone made the decisive move late in the race, taking the Am class lead with about five minutes remaining. He held off the competition to secure the win for the No. 30 Mustang, giving Muniz and the TechSport Racing team their first victory of the season.
The accomplishment was especially emotional for Muniz.
After the checkered flag, Muniz fought back tears while celebrating with his team. He described the victory as unbelievable and credited Stone, Ford Racing, TechSport Racing and everyone who helped him pursue his racing career.
For Muniz, the moment represented much more than simply winning a race. He has repeatedly spoken about his passion for motorsports and his desire to prove himself behind the wheel after walking away from a successful acting career.
“I’m beyond thrilled,” Muniz said after the victory, calling Road America his favorite racetrack.
The weekend only became better for Muniz and Stone.
On Saturday, the pair returned to the track and won the Am class again, completing a weekend sweep. Muniz had to deal with wet conditions during the second race, but he managed to take the lead late and hold on for another victory.
The two victories have also moved Muniz and Stone into second place in the GT4 America Am class championship with four rounds remaining.
Muniz is continuing to balance his GT4 America campaign with his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series schedule, making his success at Road America even more impressive.
After years of hard work, setbacks and learning the demands of professional racing, Muniz finally has his first wins.
And judging by the emotions that followed the checkered flag, this was a victory he will never forget.