Cleetus McFarland’s Leaked NASCAR Deal Sparks Controversy Amid Internal Struggles
A seismic leak has rocked NASCAR, revealing that YouTube sensation Cleetus McFarland, known for his mullet-fueled mayhem, might be on the verge of a groundbreaking deal to join the sport’s elite ranks in 2025. The news, which surfaced on April 22, 2025, comes amidst whispers of internal turmoil within NASCAR, exposing a clash between tradition and innovation. Garrett Mitchell, aka Cleetus McFarland, has evolved from a gearhead filming wild stunts to a motorsports entrepreneur whose 4.2 million subscribers have made him a marketing juggernaut. But his potential NASCAR entry is stirring both excitement and controversy, as the sport grapples with its identity and the role of influencers in its future.
McFarland’s journey began with chaotic projects like racing lawnmowers and building the twin-turbo Corvette “Leroy.” His 2020 purchase of the abandoned Desoto Speedway, rebranded as the Freedom Factory, marked a turning point. Hosting events like Cleetus and Cars and demolition drags, he drew thousands, transforming the track into a motorsports entertainment hub. However, a serious crash involving driver Parker Whitlock at the Freedom Factory highlighted safety concerns, forcing McFarland to overhaul protocols and adopt professional standards. This pivot earned him respect, showing he was more than a content creator—he was a serious player in racing.
His ambitions soared with an ARCA Menards Series debut at Daytona in February 2025, where he drove the No. 30 Ford for Rette Jones Racing. Despite crashing out within 20 laps, McFarland’s composure under pressure impressed insiders, with NASCAR veteran Greg Biffle mentoring him on drafting and tire management. Biffle’s guidance continued as McFarland prepared for Talladega on April 26, a track known for its 200 mph chaos. “If I make it past 20 laps, I’ll call it a win,” McFarland quipped, reflecting his grounded approach. His Bristol race in September 2025, announced via posts on X, will test his precision on a tight, high-banked oval—a far cry from the spectacle of his earlier Ford Ranger race there, where trucks soared 7 feet in the air.
McFarland’s racing resume also includes a 2022 stint in the Stadium Super Truck Series, where he nearly beat off-road legend Robbie Gordon, proving his competitive edge. His YouTube empire gives him a unique advantage: sponsors flock to him for the viral exposure his channel guarantees, a stark contrast to traditional drivers who struggle for funding. NASCAR insiders are abuzz with rumors of a part-time deal for 2025, potentially leveraging his fanbase to boost the sport’s declining viewership. The ARCA Daytona race, which drew 1.16 million viewers—the most since 2013—coincided with McFarland’s debut, hinting at his draw.
Yet, the leaked deal has exposed NASCAR’s internal struggles. Traditionalists argue McFarland is “skipping the line,” prioritizing fame over the grind of lower circuits. With only a handful of races under his belt, he’s far from the 30-50 needed to prove consistency in NASCAR’s top tiers. A top-20 finish at Talladega could fast-track his ascent, but skeptics question his readiness for the Cup Series’ strategic demands. Others see his value: his authenticity, showcased through raw videos with his kids, Ripper and Ella, and wife Madi Mitchell, resonates with fans craving relatability. His 500,000-view FOX Sports booth appearance dwarfed NASCAR’s typical engagement, underscoring his potential to rejuvenate the sport.
NASCAR now faces a pivotal choice: embrace McFarland’s fresh energy or cling to its old ways. His rise, backed by mentorship from Biffle and praise from icons like Tony Stewart—who called him “an entertainer who knows how to have a great time”—symbolizes a shift toward a social media-driven future. As McFarland gears up for Talladega and Bristol, every lap is a chance to prove he’s not just a wildcard, but a contender. Will NASCAR’s gatekeepers let him in, or will internal politics derail his dream? The fanbase has spoken—they want more Cleetus. The only question is whether NASCAR will listen.
