A New Chapter for the YouTube Star
Garrett Mitchell, better known to his millions of followers as Cleetus McFarland, has announced that his next NASCAR outing will take place in the second half of the 2026 season. The confirmation comes as the YouTuber‑turned‑driver prepares to make his mark in the Truck Series, a division he has been eyeing for several years.
Mitchell's climb into NASCAR has been methodical. After a handful of ARCA Menards Series starts in 2025, he matched that total earlier this month and began testing the waters in the Craftsman Truck Series. His debut came in February with a one‑off entry for Niece Motorsports at Daytona, and he has since added scheduled appearances at Michigan and Talladega.
The Talladega race will mark his second confirmed Truck Series start of the year, and it sits at the center of a schedule that could expand if the right opportunities arise. While Mitchell has spoken about the possibility of adding more races, he stresses that any additional dates will hinge on sponsor support and team availability.
Sponsorship and Future Opportunities
The financial backing that Mitchell brings to the track is a key factor in his ability to negotiate multiple dates. His online audience, which spans across YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, offers brands a unique platform for exposure, and several commercial partners have already expressed interest in aligning with his racing program.
Team dynamics also play a role in shaping his schedule. Niece Motorsports has been a supportive partner, but the organization relies on a steady flow of funding to field competitive entries. As a result, the team's calendar will be shaped as much by sponsor commitments as by sporting considerations.
Looking ahead, the latter half of the 2026 season promises to be a busy period for Mitchell. With Michigan and Talladega already on the books, the driver is focused on delivering strong performances that could attract further opportunities, potentially extending his involvement beyond the initial two‑race commitment.