YouTuber and NASCAR fan Garrett Mitchell, known as Cleetus McFarland, has secured a part-time racing contract with Richard Childress Racing. Under this agreement, McFarland will participate in three NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series points races per season for the next two years, marking a notable step in his racing career.
The deal, sponsored by Tommy’s Express Car Wash, includes McFarland’s Truck Series debut with Richard Childress Racing scheduled for April 3 at the Black’s Tire 200 inside Rockingham Speedway. This opportunity stems from the team’s interest in developing McFarland’s driving skills and expanding his presence in professional motorsports.
Carson Hocevar’s Response to McFarland’s New Role
NASCAR Cup Series driver Carson Hocevar expressed enthusiasm about McFarland’s RCR involvement. Responding to the announcement on social media, Hocevar encouraged McFarland with the phrase, “Shake and bake brotha.” Both drivers recently competed at Daytona International Speedway, where McFarland’s debut ended early following a crash on lap six, and Hocevar finished in 35th place. Chandler Smith won that race, securing his first victory of the 2026 season.
Looking ahead, both Hocevar and McFarland will aim to perform at the Buckle Up South Carolina 200, scheduled for March 20, 2026, at Darlington Raceway. This 147-lap event will be broadcast live on FS1 and followed via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Debate Surrounding McFarland’s Entry into Competitive Racing
Despite the excitement around McFarland’s contract, some within the NASCAR community have voiced criticism about his rapid advancement. Freddie Kraft, Bubba Wallace’s spotter and a well-known NASCAR insider, previously questioned NASCAR’s decision to approve McFarland’s entry for the Daytona race, citing concerns over McFarland’s limited competitive experience.
“Crash at the Rockingham truck test. Crash Lap 5 of your only truck start. Good enough for me. Approved,” Kraft wrote on social media. “I don’t blame Cleetus one bit. We’d all jump at the chance to just show up and get approved.”
—Freddie Kraft, NASCAR insider and Bubba Wallace’s spotter
Kraft’s comments highlight the controversy surrounding McFarland’s swift transition from YouTube personality to part-time professional driver, emphasizing the governing body’s role in approving drivers for high-level competitions.
McFarland’s Early Racing Experience and Future Plans
McFarland began professional racing only last year, making four starts in the ARCA Menards Series with two finishes inside the top ten. In 2026, he is expected to race part-time in ARCA with Rette Jones Racing, alongside his new commitments with Richard Childress Racing. This gradual development illustrates McFarland’s progression from enthusiast to contender in stock car racing.
Significance of the Deal in NASCAR’s Landscape
Cleetus McFarland’s entry into Richard Childress Racing marks a unique crossover from online personality to NASCAR driver, potentially drawing new fans to the sport. Carson Hocevar’s positive reaction shows support from established drivers, which may help McFarland integrate into the competitive field. However, ongoing scrutiny from insiders like Freddie Kraft underscores the challenges newcomers face in proving their credentials at the sport’s professional levels.
As the 2026 season unfolds, McFarland’s performance in upcoming races such as the Black’s Tire 200 at Rockingham Speedway and the Buckle Up South Carolina 200 at Darlington Raceway will be closely watched. How well he adapts to these competitive environments will determine if his part-time deal evolves into a broader opportunity within NASCAR’s upper tiers.
