Casey Mears Bio
Early Life and Background
Casey James Mears was born on March 12, 1978, in Bakersfield, California, United States. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in motorsports, being the nephew of four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Rick Mears and the son of IndyCar and off-road veteran Roger Mears. This familial connection to racing provided Casey with early exposure to the sport, sparking his passion for racing from a young age.
Mears began his racing career in go-karts in 1991, quickly transitioning to the SuperLites Off-Road Series in 1992, where he achieved several top-three finishes. His early success in racing laid the groundwork for a career that would span multiple racing disciplines, including stock car racing and off-road competitions.
Path to NASCAR
Mears’ journey to NASCAR began in the late 1990s when he competed in the Indy Lights series. He made his debut in 1996 and finished second in the championship in 1999, becoming one of the few drivers to complete every lap in a season. His performance caught the attention of various teams, leading to opportunities in both IndyCar and NASCAR.
In 2001, Mears made his NASCAR debut in the Busch Series, driving for Cicci-Welliver Racing. He quickly progressed through the ranks, showcasing his talent and determination, which ultimately led him to drive for Chip Ganassi Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series starting in 2003.
Casey Mears Career
Early Career (2001–2005)
Mears began his NASCAR career in the Busch Series, where he drove the No. 66 car for Cicci-Welliver Racing. He finished 21st in points during his rookie season, which set the stage for his move to Chip Ganassi Racing. His tenure with Ganassi was marked by several near-victories, including a strong performance at the 2004 Sirius at the Glen, where he finished fourth after leading late in the race.
In 2005, Mears transitioned to the No. 42 Texaco/Havoline Dodge, where he continued to develop as a driver. He achieved a career-best second-place finish at the 2006 Daytona 500, further solidifying his reputation in the sport.
NASCAR Cup Series Breakthrough (2006–2009)
Mears’ breakthrough in the NASCAR Cup Series came in 2007 when he joined Hendrick Motorsports. He won his first and only Cup Series race at the Coca-Cola 600, a memorable victory achieved through a strategic fuel gamble that saw him take the lead with just five laps remaining. This win marked a significant milestone in his career and showcased his ability to compete at the highest level.
Following his time at Hendrick, Mears moved to Richard Childress Racing in 2008, where he struggled to find consistent success. Despite this, he managed to secure two top-ten finishes in his first season with the team. However, after a challenging 2009 season, Mears was released from RCR.
Current Team Era (2023–Present)
In 2023, Mears made a return to NASCAR, driving the No. 66 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Garage 66. His comeback was marked by a desire to reach 500 career NASCAR Cup Series starts. Mears’ return to the sport was met with enthusiasm, and he participated in several races, including the Cook Out 400.
As of 2025, Mears continues to compete part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 69 Ford F-150 for MBM Motorsports. His experience and skill have kept him competitive, and he remains a respected figure in the racing community.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Mears is known for his strategic approach to racing, often making calculated decisions that have led to significant race victories. His versatility across different racing disciplines, including off-road and stock car racing, highlights his adaptability and skill as a driver.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Mears’ career is highlighted by notable achievements, including his victory at the Coca-Cola 600 and his overall win at the 24 Hours of Daytona in 2006. These milestones reflect his talent and dedication to the sport.
Casey Mears Career Wins
Casey Mears has achieved significant success across various racing series, with notable wins in both NASCAR and endurance racing. His career includes one win in the NASCAR Cup Series and several victories in other series, showcasing his versatility as a driver.
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
In the NASCAR Cup Series, Mears has recorded a total of one win, with his first victory coming at the Coca-Cola 600 in 2007. His most recent appearances have been part of a strategic comeback, aiming to add to his career totals and reach the milestone of 500 starts.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Mears secured one win and has consistently demonstrated his competitiveness throughout his career. His early achievements in the series laid the foundation for his later successes in the Cup Series.
Casey Mears Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Casey Mears comes from a prominent racing family, with his uncle Rick Mears being a legendary figure in IndyCar racing. This familial connection has played a significant role in shaping his career and passion for motorsports.
Personal Life
Details about Mears’ personal life remain private, as he focuses primarily on his racing career and contributions to the sport.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has seen Mears competing part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. His performances have been marked by a mix of competitive racing and strategic decisions, as he aims to solidify his legacy in the sport. As he approaches the milestone of 500 career starts, Mears continues to demonstrate his passion and commitment to racing, making him a respected figure in the NASCAR community.
