In a turn of events that has electrified the motorsports world, NASCAR executive Elton Sawyer finally broke his silence after weeks of speculation, confirming a “done deal” that is already being hailed as one of the most unexpected moves in recent memory. Following the dramatic Talladega race weekend, Sawyer revealed a groundbreaking partnership that directly involves YouTube sensation and grassroots racing icon Cleetus McFarland — and the implications for NASCAR and motorsports as a whole are nothing short of massive.
The Big Announcement: Cleetus Joins the NASCAR Fold
During a post-Talladega press conference, Sawyer confirmed that NASCAR has officially partnered with Cleetus McFarland (real name Garrett Mitchell), bringing his popular Freedom Factory track and racing brand into a formal affiliation with the sport.
“We’ve reached an agreement to collaborate with Cleetus and his team on several events and content initiatives starting in 2025,” said Sawyer. “This is a done deal. We’re all in.”
The news stunned both traditional fans and online audiences, many of whom have followed McFarland’s rise from viral burnout videos to hosting full-scale grassroots racing events with millions of views.
What the Partnership Includes
According to insiders, the partnership will include:
A NASCAR-sanctioned exhibition series hosted at the Freedom Factory in Florida.
Content collaborations to promote NASCAR across Cleetus’s massive online following.
Cross-promotional races featuring both NASCAR veterans and grassroots drivers.
Livestreamed behind-the-scenes access to bring a younger audience into the fold.
Sawyer emphasized that the goal is not just exposure but true engagement.
“Cleetus knows how to capture passion in racing, especially with the younger generation. We want that energy in the NASCAR ecosystem.”
Cleetus Reacts: “It’s Finally Happening!”
Just hours after the announcement, Cleetus McFarland uploaded a video titled “WE’RE NASCAR OFFICIAL!” in which he expressed gratitude and disbelief.
“This is a dream come true,” Cleetus said. “I’ve loved NASCAR since I was a kid, and now to be officially working with them? Unreal. And trust me, we’ve got some WILD stuff planned.”
His fans, affectionately known as the “Cleetus Army,” erupted with support, flooding the comments section with congratulations and excitement about what this could mean for their favorite DIY motorsports creator.
What This Means for NASCAR
This move is being hailed by industry analysts as a bold step in connecting the traditional motorsports world with a new digital generation.
Cleetus brings over 3 million YouTube subscribers, massive social engagement, and an unmatched grassroots fanbase. His events like “Cleetus and Cars” and the Bald Eagle Races have drawn in thousands of live spectators and millions of online viewers.
“NASCAR needs to stay relevant in the TikTok era,” said a motorsports marketing analyst. “Cleetus gives them that street cred.”
Not Everyone Is On Board
Despite the excitement, some traditionalists have voiced skepticism. Critics argue that blending NASCAR’s storied history with Cleetus’s sometimes chaotic brand could alienate longtime fans.
“This better not turn into a circus,” one fan posted on Reddit.
Still, the majority reaction seems overwhelmingly positive, especially among younger fans who feel NASCAR has needed to evolve.
A New Era Begins
While specific event dates and formats are still being finalized, both Sawyer and McFarland confirmed that the first Freedom Factory x NASCAR event will debut in early 2025, with ticket and streaming details to be announced in the coming months.
The Bottom Line
Elton Sawyer’s “done deal” isn’t just a partnership—it’s a statement. NASCAR is making a bold bet on the future, and Cleetus McFarland is the face of that future. Whether it’s a perfect match or a risky experiment remains to be seen, but one thing’s for certain: motorsports just got a lot more interesting.
