Casey Mears Bio
Early Life and Background
Casey James Mears was born on March 12, 1978, in Bakersfield, California, U.S. 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, which would shape his career path.
Mears began his racing journey in 1991, competing in go-karts. By 1992, he had transitioned to the SuperLites Off-Road Series, 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 off-road racing and stock car racing.
Path to NASCAR
Mears’ ascent in motorsports continued as he moved to sprint cars in 1994, finishing third in the Jim Russell USAC Triple Crown Championship. He made his debut in the Indy Lights series in 1996 and competed full-time in 1999, finishing second in the championship. His performance in Indy Lights caught the attention of major teams, leading to opportunities in both the IndyCar and Champ Car series.
In 2001, Mears made his NASCAR debut in the Busch Series at Homestead-Miami Speedway. His transition to stock car racing was marked by a full-time ride with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2003, where he began to establish himself in the NASCAR ranks.
Casey Mears Career
Early Career (2001-2005)
Mears started 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 led to a full-time position with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2003. His early years in NASCAR were challenging, with Mears struggling to secure top finishes, but he gained valuable experience driving various cars and competing in multiple series.
During this period, Mears achieved notable success in the ARCA series, winning three races in 2003. His performance in ARCA helped him gain confidence and experience, setting the stage for his future in the NASCAR Cup Series.
NASCAR Cup Series Breakthrough (2006-2007)
Mears’ breakthrough came in 2006 when he joined Hendrick Motorsports. He won his first NASCAR race in July 2006 at Chicagoland Speedway, a significant milestone that paved the way for greater success. The following year, Mears achieved his most notable victory, winning the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. This win was a culmination of a strategic fuel gamble, allowing him to take the lead late in the race and secure his first and only NASCAR Cup Series victory.
In 2007, Mears drove the No. 25 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, finishing the season with a career-best 14th place in the championship standings. His performance during this time solidified his reputation as a competitive driver in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Garage 66 Era (2023-Present)
After a hiatus from the Cup Series, Mears returned to NASCAR in 2023, driving the No. 66 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Garage 66. His return was marked by a desire to reach 500 career NASCAR Cup Series starts, and he expressed enthusiasm about competing again at a high level. Mears’ comeback included participation in several races, showcasing his enduring passion for the sport.
As of the 2025 season, Mears continues to compete part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series as well, driving the No. 69 Ford F-150 for MBM Motorsports. His experience and knowledge of racing dynamics have made him a valuable asset to his teams.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Mears is known for his strategic approach to racing, often making calculated decisions that can lead to significant gains on the track. His experience across various racing disciplines has honed his craft, allowing him to adapt to different racing conditions and formats effectively.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Mears’ career is highlighted by significant wins, including the prestigious Coca-Cola 600 and the 24 Hours of Daytona. His ability to perform under pressure and secure victories in high-stakes situations has marked him as a memorable figure in motorsports.
Casey Mears Career Wins
Casey Mears has achieved notable success across various racing series, with a total of two significant wins in major events. His victories include:
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
In the NASCAR Cup Series, Mears has one win, which came during the 2007 Coca-Cola 600. This victory remains a defining moment in his career, showcasing his skill and determination on one of NASCAR’s biggest stages.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Mears secured one win and had a total of 34 top-ten finishes, demonstrating his competitiveness in the series. His early career in the ARCA Menards Series also saw him achieve three wins, further establishing his racing credentials.
Casey Mears Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Casey Mears comes from a distinguished racing family, with his uncle Rick Mears being a celebrated figure in IndyCar racing. This lineage has played a crucial role in shaping his career and passion for motorsports.
Personal Life
Details about Mears’ personal life remain private, as he focuses on his racing career. His commitment to the sport and his family legacy continues to drive him in his professional endeavors.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks an important chapter in Mears’ career as he aims to reach 500 career NASCAR Cup Series starts. Competing part-time for Garage 66, Mears has shown resilience and determination, participating in key races and contributing to his team’s efforts. As the season progresses, Mears is focused on achieving competitive results and solidifying his legacy in NASCAR.
