Garrett Mitchell, better known to millions as Cleetus McFarland, is no stranger to the high-octane world of motorsports—but this weekend at Daytona International Speedway, he’s stepping into the limelight on a whole new stage. The 30-year-old YouTube sensation, whose automotive antics have long entertained fans online, is making his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut while also returning to the ARCA Menards Series, marking his first-ever doubleheader weekend in national stock car racing. For McFarland, this isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a moment that’s captured the attention of the racing world, as he transitions from digital influencer to bona fide NASCAR driver.

Mitchell’s whirlwind weekend began with a rigorous schedule—six sessions in just two days, including two practices, two qualifying rounds, and two races. On Thursday, February 12, 2026, he clocked in 16th fastest during ARCA practice and 23rd in his inaugural Truck Series practice, a respectable showing that landed him third among his Niece Motorsports teammates. The qualifying sessions on Friday were crucial, as 44 trucks vied for only 40 spots on the grid, and the stakes couldn’t have been higher for the Daytona season opener.

Friday night’s Fresh From Florida 250, broadcast live on FS1, featured a star-studded field of 36 drivers, including three-time Cup Series champion Tony Stewart, X Games legend Travis Pastrana, and five Cup Series regulars. For McFarland, the moment was surreal. “I’ve been called a YouTuber forever,” he told The Associated Press on Thursday. “I was like, ‘Awwwe. That’s sooo much better.’” That’s because, for the first time, a fan had recognized him as a NASCAR driver—a title he’s worked hard to earn.

McFarland’s journey to Daytona’s big stage didn’t happen overnight. In 2025, he made four ARCA starts, kicking off at Daytona (where a crash after 17 laps cut his race short), followed by a 10th-place finish at Talladega, a ninth at Charlotte, and 17th at Bristol. Those experiences proved invaluable. “I feel a little more comfortable,” McFarland admitted. “Last year, I couldn’t even get to the garage. I’m like, ‘Where the hell is my car even at?’ Now, I know where to go. I know some familiar faces. I know the track, so I feel a lot better.”

His Truck Series debut was made possible thanks to a unique blend of camaraderie and sponsorship. Travis Pastrana, his Niece Motorsports teammate and a veteran of both rally and stock car racing, was instrumental in bringing McFarland aboard. The pair are backed by Black Rifle Coffee Company and Brunt Workwear, with both sponsors quickly jumping in to support their Daytona bid. Their combined efforts also resulted in a $100,000 donation to the veteran’s care nonprofit Boot Campaign, adding a philanthropic twist to their racing adventure.

Both McFarland and Pastrana are racing with heavy hearts, carrying tributes to their late friend and mentor Greg Biffle, who tragically died in a plane crash in December 2025. Biffle, a NASCAR Hall of Fame nominee and one of the sport’s top 75 drivers, was a guiding force for McFarland. “I wouldn’t be here without Biff,” McFarland said in a moving tribute. “We’re representing. I never really talked to him about trucks, unfortunately. This would have been so cool. He would have been so stoked that we’re doing this.” Their trucks proudly display “Be Like Biff” decals and Biffle’s No. 16 topped by a halo, a visible reminder of the legacy they’re honoring on the track.

For the ARCA Menards Series, McFarland returned to Rette Jones Racing’s No. 30 Ford Mustang, again sponsored by Kenetik. His car carried not just the sponsor’s branding, but heartfelt tributes to Biffle—a sticker on the name rail and the “Be Like Biff” message on the bumper. The ARCA General Tire 200, held on Saturday, February 14 at noon and aired live on FOX, marked his fifth career ARCA start and the next step in a four-race ARCA schedule for 2026. After Daytona, fans can expect to see him at Talladega on April 25, Michigan on June 5, and at Kansas later in the season.

Mitchell’s entry into the Truck Series was no small feat. He earned NASCAR superspeedway clearance after a test session at Rockingham Speedway just days before his Daytona debut. “My expectations are much higher this year,” he said. “I understand when and where risk matters. Last year, I ended up falling out (of the draft) because someone was spinning out in front of me and I kept trying to push it and get around them to not lose the field. Now I would just be like, ‘There’s a caution coming anyway. Just stop. This is so stupid.’ So, I’m learning.”

Pastrana, who’s preparing for his 50th NASCAR national series start, has been a source of support and inspiration. “Cleetus always downplays his driving skills, but he’s a wheel man,” Pastrana said. “He can wheel anything.” The duo’s plan for the race was simple: work together in the draft, leverage their friendships across the field, and see if they could shake up the order. “Trav and I have definitely talked, and our plan is to shake and bake,” McFarland told Road & Track. “We really should probably get a few more guys to help us, though. I know Carson [Hocevar] is down to help us, I’m sure if we find Tony [Stewart] out there and give him a nudge he’ll hang out with us.”

The excitement in the paddock was palpable. The Daytona Truck Series opener is always a wild affair, but this year’s race—with its blend of established stars, charismatic newcomers, and heartfelt tributes—felt even more electric. Pastrana summed up the mood: “The coolest part about what Cleetus does is that he has re-inspired even guys like me, that are kind of known for having fun. Sometimes you take it too serious. You go down to [McFarland’s Panther platform race] the Freedom 500 and you see the fans, you’re just running Crown Vics, you have an ear-to-ear grin no matter where you are. And you realize, ‘We get to drive cars and trucks for a freakin’ living, and this is awesome.’”

For fans watching at home, the spectacle was accessible on multiple platforms—FS1 for the Truck Series, FOX for ARCA, radio coverage on NRN and MRN, and streaming via the NASCAR and SiriusXM apps. Social media buzzed with anticipation as fans debated McFarland’s chances and shared memories of Biffle’s impact on the sport.

As the dust settles on this action-packed weekend, one thing is clear: Cleetus McFarland’s evolution from YouTube star to NASCAR driver is more than just a viral moment. It’s a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring bonds of motorsport. While his future Truck Series schedule remains unconfirmed, McFarland’s star is undeniably on the rise—and the racing world will be watching closely as he continues to chase his Daytona dreams.