Garrett Mitchell, widely recognized as Cleetus McFarland, revealed major news about his racing future during a recent appearance on Dale Earnhardt Jr’s NASCAR podcast. McFarland, who has become a notable name in online motorsports, confirmed he will join Richard Childress Racing for a part-time schedule in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, beginning this season and continuing into next year.
Cleetus McFarland Announces NASCAR Deal with Richard Childress Racing
Mitchell made his career-changing announcement on Earnhardt’s show, sharing that he has landed a deal to drive the No. 33 Chevrolet for the established Richard Childress Racing organization. Over the next two seasons, he is set to compete in three or four races each year as part of their lineup. The arrangement was discussed in detail, shining a light on the significance of this new direction for the emerging driver.
“RCR called me up, offered me a ride in their O’Reilly’s car for three or four races a year for two years,”
Mitchell said, reflecting on how the opportunity came together after he made an honest assessment of his learning curve following a recent crash.
Reflecting on a Breakthrough Opportunity in Stock Car Racing
The deal marks a significant rise for Mitchell, a popular Florida native and content creator who only started competing in NASCAR’s national ranks recently. He highlighted his excitement about stepping up to pilot a car for one of the sport’s most respected teams, still processing how quickly his success online as a motorsport influencer has translated to a real seat on the track.
“Pretty unbelievable to me, and I’m just so thankful and excited. It doesn’t even sound real coming out of my mouth still,”
Mitchell shared, revealing his disbelief and gratitude for this unexpected move up the racing ladder.
Mitchell will kick off his time with Richard Childress Racing at Rockingham Speedway on April 4, running with support from Tommy’s Express Car Wash as his sponsor. The team confirmed he will compete in a limited number of events, giving him space to develop his skills while learning from some of the best in the business. Mitchell’s journey from YouTube fame to the heart of stock car competition mirrors the evolving world of motorsport, where digital stars are increasingly finding real-world opportunities.
Guidance from Dale Earnhardt Jr and Facing the NASCAR Challenge
Mitchell’s relationship with Dale Earnhardt Jr has proven important throughout his rapid rise. He notified Earnhardt about his offer from RCR early on, and Earnhardt encouraged him to make the leap. During the podcast, Earnhardt was quick to address the pressures ahead as Mitchell prepares for his NASCAR debut at Rockingham—a performance that could decide whether he’ll be permitted to race at even larger tracks, like superspeedways, down the line.
Mitchell has already tasted the challenges of NASCAR, having made his Craftsman Truck Series debut at Daytona International Speedway earlier this year. That attempt was cut short by a crash, serving as an early lesson in the high standard of competition in the sport.
With Mitchell now preparing for another transition, Earnhardt offered practical advice for the new driver.
“There is a chance that you will be passed by the leaders,”
Earnhardt explained, citing the realities faced by newer drivers.
“You will be judged by how well you get out of their way,”
Earnhardt continued, underlining the importance of respect and awareness in NASCAR’s fast, strategic racing environment.
He expanded on this point, giving Mitchell key recommendations for handling traffic during a race:
“I will give you some advice. I won’t tell you what RCR is going to tell you to do, but one of them is coming by you on the outside. Don’t drive into the corner. Just lift that car length earlier to let them clear in front of you,”
Earnhardt advised, demonstrating his commitment to mentoring the up-and-coming competitor.
Looking Ahead: An Influencer’s NASCAR Journey Begins
As Mitchell prepares for his first race at Rockingham Speedway, his entry symbolizes more than just personal achievement. His leap from content creator to Richard Childress Racing’s stable represents NASCAR’s growing intersection with online personalities and new media. It also highlights the willingness of established teams to bet on emerging drivers who bring both talent and large audiences.
With figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr involved and teams like RCR offering coveted opportunities, Mitchell’s journey will be closely watched by fans and insiders alike. His adaptation to the intensity and demands of full-scale stock car racing may shape not only his own future but also influence how NASCAR engages with a new generation of media-savvy racing talent.
Hell yeah brother. 🇺🇸🦅
Cleetus McFarland broke the news to @DaleJr that he's signed a deal with @RCRracing. pic.twitter.com/fgxPEY1ZFl
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) March 4, 2026
