Dale Earnhardt Jr., a veteran of NASCAR’s most iconic events, has publicly voiced his confidence in Cleetus McFarland’s bid to qualify for the Daytona 500.
McFarland, who first crossed paths with the late Greg Biffle during charitable work in North Carolina, has built a modest racing empire around a short track in Bradenton, Florida, where he experiments with a variety of vehicles.
A Mentor’s Influence
Biffle’s mentorship pushed McFarland to adopt a more disciplined approach, a lesson that became especially poignant after the driver’s passing, prompting the YouTuber‑turned‑racer to accelerate his plans for top‑level competition.
Recognizing the gaps in McFarland’s experience, Earnhardt recommended a concentrated stint in the ARCA Menards Series, insisting that two full seasons on the ARCA circuit would provide the technical foundation needed for the sport’s premier event.
Preparing the Machine
To that end, McFarland has invested in a straight‑rail Super/Pro Late Model, a car he plans to campaign across the country as part of his preparation for the Daytona 500.
Earnhardt also suggested that McFarland test his Pro Late Model at his own Florida venue, using the familiar layout to fine‑tune handling and racecraft before heading north.
The next step in the plan lands McFarland at Michigan International Speedway, where he will contest both the NASCAR Truck Series and an ARCA event, a dual appearance that underscores the transitional nature of his campaign.
Beyond the track, the effort carries an emotional weight, as McFarland seeks to honor Biffle’s memory while carving out his own niche in a sport that has long been a family affair for the Earnhardt lineage.