NASCAR driver returns to NASCAR Cup Series after five years, bringing fresh excitement to Martinsville Speedway. A familiar name is set to race again, piloting the No. 66 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Garage 66. Backed by key sponsorship, this comeback promises intensity on the historic half-mile track. With 488 career starts and a major victory to his name, this seasoned competitor is ready for another shot. But what’s driving this return?
Key Highlights
- Casey Mears returns to the NASCAR Cup Series for the Martinsville race after a five-year hiatus.
- He will drive the No. 66 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Garage 66.
- Mears’ entry is supported by primary sponsor HitchGO and other partners.
- He aims to surpass 500 NASCAR Cup Series starts with this comeback.
- The Martinsville race is scheduled for March 30 and will be broadcast on FS1.
Casey Mears Returns to NASCAR Cup Series
Although it’s been over five years since he last competed in NASCAR’s National Series, Casey Mears is making a much-expected return to the NASCAR Cup Series. His comeback is slated for the March 30 event at Martinsville Speedway, a track renowned for its challenging half-mile paperclip shape.
Mears will be behind the wheel of the No. 66 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, expertly prepared by MBM Motorsports, now competing as Garage 66.
This marks a notable moment for Mears, who has been absent from the high-octane world of NASCAR’s top series for an extended period. The decision to return to such a competitive arena highlights his lasting passion for racing and his steadfast determination to succeed.
“I’m happy to be back in a race car and look forward to returning to Martinsville, one of my favorite tracks,”
“I appreciate Carl [Long] working with me to make it happen; he’s a well-respected, great guy who’s worked hard to experience longevity in the sport. I’m excited to have HitchGo, Mosby’s Towing and Transport, and Coble Enterprises on board as we chip away at 500 NASCAR Cup Series starts.” – Casey Mears
Mears’ experience and skillset are expected to bring a new level of excitement to the race, enchanting both longtime fans and newer enthusiasts keen to witness his highly anticipated performance.
🚨 NEWS: @CJMearsGang is returning to @NASCAR!
Casey will start his 490th premier series race in the @GoHitchGO #66 @MartinsvilleSwy on March 30 as he chases a major milestone: 500 career NASCAR Cup starts.
READ: https://t.co/EDPS9SIySX#NASCAR #CookOut400
🎨 @SMD_racing pic.twitter.com/cuhWz5A9r4
— Garage 66 & MBM Motorsports (@MBMMotorsports) March 13, 2025
Sponsorship and Partners for Mears’ Return
In a considerable move for his return to NASCAR, Casey Mears has garnered the support of multiple sponsors, underscoring the importance of collaboration in motorsports. HitchGO, known for its mobile RV repair services across western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio, stands as the primary sponsor, ensuring Mears’ visibility and support on his comeback expedition.
Complementing this partnership, Mosby’s Towing and Transport, alongside Coble Enterprises, join as notable associate partners. This alliance improves the team’s resources and presence in the competitive NASCAR Cup Series.
The tactical partnerships Mears has formed exemplify several key aspects:
- Resource Mobilization: Securing support from diverse sectors improves financial and logistical backing.
- Brand Visibility: Sponsors gain exposure through NASCAR’s vast audience.
- Mutual Growth: Collaboration offers growth opportunities for both the driver and sponsors.
- Community Engagement: Regional companies like HitchGO connect with local fans.
Carl Long’s Excitement for Partnering with Mears
Excitement fills the air as Carl Long, a long-standing figure in NASCAR’s National Series, welcomes the opportunity to partner with Casey Mears on his return to the Cup Series.
Long, a veteran in the racing world, cherishes this chance to work alongside Mears, who is aiming to surpass 500 NASCAR Cup Series starts. Long expresses pride in having a driver like Mears represent Garage 66, adding it to his list of esteemed teams, such as Chip Ganassi Racing and Hendrick Motorsports.
“Having Casey Mears drive a Garage 66 car is a proud day for our organization. He’d driven for NASCAR’s elite such as Chip Ganassi Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, and Richard Childress Racing. Adding Garage 66 to that list means a lot to me and everyone who’s helped build our team.”
“Casey [Mears] and I first connected many years ago when he was driving and he always treated me and our fellow competitors with respect on and off the track. He hails from a historic racing family, but it’s not something he boasts about. He always takes time for everyone, which is indicative of his character. I love having the opportunity to work with good people, especially when they drive fast. I’m excited to get to Martinsville with Casey and have a successful weekend for HitchGO, Mosby’s Towing and Transport, and Coble Enterprises.” – Carl Long
Long reflects on his connection with Mears, emphasizing the respect Mears has always shown to fellow competitors. Mears, part of a historic racing family, is noted for his humility and character, qualities Long values highly.
This partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a chance for Long to team up with someone he admires, driven by a shared passion for racing and a commitment to excellence.
Mears’ NASCAR Career and Martinsville Race Details
Casey Mears has had a notable career in the NASCAR Cup Series, with a total of 488 starts between 2003 and 2016. During this time, he achieved one victory in the prestigious 2007 Coca-Cola 600 and secured 13 top-five finishes, establishing his reputation within the racing community.
Mears, hailing from Bakersfield, California, made a brief comeback in 2019 with a one-off start at the DAYTONA 500, reminding fans of his competitive spirit.
Looking ahead, Mears is set to return to the track for the Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway. Significant details for the upcoming race include:
- Date and Time: Scheduled for Sunday, March 30 at 3:00 PM ET.
- Broadcast: Available on FS1, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.
- Location: The event takes place at the historic Martinsville Speedway.
- Noteworthy: Marks Mears’ return to NASCAR Cup Series competition after a five-year break.
News in Brief: NASCAR Driver Returns to NASCAR Cup Series
Casey Mears’ return to the NASCAR Cup Series after five years promises to be an exciting event at Martinsville. With strong sponsorship backing and Carl Long’s enthusiastic partnership, Mears is set to make a memorable comeback.
His extensive experience and previous successes in NASCAR add a layer of anticipation to the race. Fans and partners alike are keen to see how Mears will perform, marking a significant chapter in his racing career and adding intrigue to the Martinsville race.
