Dale Earnhardt Jr. has publicly voiced his support for Cleetus McFarland, the YouTube personality determined to make the Daytona 500 his next racing milestone.
A Mentor’s Legacy
McFarland first crossed paths with the late Greg Biffle while participating in charitable projects across North Carolina, a connection that blossomed into a friendship.
He also owns a short track in Bradenton, Florida, where he tests his cars and refines his craft.
After Biffle's passing, McFarland received an unexpected opportunity from Richard Childress Racing, a team with deep roots in the sport.
The arrangement underscores a belief that his persistence and diverse racing background merit a chance at higher‑level competition.
McFarland has been navigating the NASCAR O’Reilly Series, where he has experienced multiple spins, but he has responded by acquiring a straight‑rail Super/Pro Late Model to compete across the country.
Earnhardt advises him to concentrate on ARCA events to sharpen his skills before tackling the Truck Series.
This weekend, McFarland is slated to line up for both the Truck Series and the ARCA Menards Series at Michigan International Speedway, a test of endurance and adaptability.
Earnhardt further suggests that McFarland should take his Pro Late Model to his own Florida track to gain valuable laps before the next big race.