Garrett Mitchell, better known as Cleetus McFarland, announced on Wednesday his intention to pursue NASCAR competition by testing next week to become eligible for the NASCAR Truck Series. This development marks a significant step in his motorsports career as he aims to race in one of NASCAR’s prominent series.
McFarland’s upcoming test will take place in a truck fielded by Niece Motorsports. He enjoys backing from sponsors Black Rifle Coffee Company and Brunt Workwear, who are supporting his efforts to break into the Truck Series.
Guys… I’ll be testing next week to see if I’m eligible for some @nascar truck racing!!!
McFarland wrote on Facebook.
That’s all I can say for now, but it’s all possible because of @blackriflecoffee and @bruntworkwear supporting me on this opportunity! @niecemotorsports has the truck ready for some testing I’m FIRED UP!!!
McFarland’s Racing History and Immediate Plans
The 30-year-old driver had three starts in the ARCA Menards Series during last season, achieving two top-10 finishes, with his best result being ninth place at Charlotte Motor Speedway. In 2026, McFarland is scheduled to compete part-time in the ARCA series for Rette Jones Racing.
His first race of the 2026 season will be at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, February 14, setting a clear path toward his goal of ascending NASCAR’s ranks.
Personal Motivation Fueled by Mentor’s Passing
Beyond aiming for competitive success, McFarland is carrying an emotional motivation following the recent death of his close friend and mentor, Greg Biffle. This loss initially caused McFarland to question his racing future but ultimately strengthened his determination.
Greg Biffle, my mentor, passed away last month, so things are going to be a lot different,
McFarland said last month.
I’ll admit to you guys that a month ago when everything happened, I didn’t want to ever step foot in a NASCAR garage again. I didn’t want to race. Now that some time has passed. I have realized what would The Biff want. He would want me to continue racing and trying to climb the ladder in NASCAR.
When Biff and I originally talked about racing NASCAR, I told him I wanted to race the Daytona 500. He kind of politely told me that that’s not gonna happen without doing some serious work, so we started a plan of getting to the Daytona 500. Knowing we had to be in ARCA, and then likely Truck, and then maybe the O’Reilly Series, and then Cup. You can’t just go race the Daytona 500… now I am prepared to complete that mission.
Aiming for a Long-Term NASCAR Career
Cleetus McFarland’s ambition is to one day compete in the prestigious Daytona 500, a goal that requires steady progression through NASCAR’s ladder system. His planned testing in the Truck Series truck with Niece Motorsports represents an essential step in this process, combining his racing experience with important sponsor support.
If successful, McFarland’s Truck Series debut in 2026 will elevate his profile in NASCAR and could lead to additional opportunities within the sport, continuing the legacy inspired by Greg Biffle and fueled by McFarland’s passion.
