Cleetus McFarland’s Game-Changing Decision Shakes Up NASCAR with Ram’s 2026 Return
Daytona Beach, Florida, June 12, 2025 – NASCAR’s future is poised for a thrilling transformation as YouTube sensation Cleetus McFarland, real name Garrett Mitchell, edges closer to a groundbreaking move that could redefine the sport. Following Ram’s official announcement to rejoin the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026, McFarland’s potential role as a driver and brand ambassador has ignited excitement, blending digital stardom with racing heritage. This bold crossover, hinted at in recent reports and fueled by his ARCA success, promises to bridge NASCAR to a younger audience while marking Ram’s return after a 13-year absence, a development that could reshape motorsports history.
McFarland, boasting 4.4 million YouTube subscribers—outpacing NASCAR’s 1.5 million—has already made waves with three ARCA starts this year, including top-10 finishes at Talladega and Charlotte. His Daytona debut in February, streamed live to tens of thousands, showcased his appeal, with NASCAR leveraging his in-car footage to boost engagement. Now, with Ram, under Stellantis’ banner, set to bring a fourth manufacturer to the Truck Series alongside Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet, McFarland’s involvement could be pivotal. Sources suggest he’s lined up as a potential driver, possibly part-time or full-time, with a media document flagging him as a key figure in Ram’s strategy to reclaim its performance legacy, complete with the iconic Hemi V8’s return.
This move aligns with Ram’s aggressive re-entry plan, led by new CEO Tim Kuniskis, who promises a “solid plan” to stand out in the series. The brand’s Michigan International Speedway stunt—featuring a Ram 5500 towing a truck for a patriotic burnout—signals a fan-first approach, while McFarland’s raw charisma and gearhead persona could draw a new demographic of digitally savvy, horsepower-hungry fans. His potential partnership with teams like GMS Racing, dormant since 2023, adds intrigue, with speculation swirling about cross-series talent like NHRA’s Matt Hagan or Canadian drivers joining the fray. Dodge’s rumored 2027 Cup Series return further amplifies the stakes.
NASCAR, grappling with declining TV ratings and an aging fanbase, sees McFarland as a lifeline. His videos, blending burnouts and behind-the-scenes access, could revolutionize how races are experienced, merging online influence with track action. Yet, challenges loom—his limited racing experience (three ARCA starts) raises questions about competitiveness, and Stellantis’ financial commitment remains unconfirmed. Fans are split: some hail him as a fresh face, others caution against overhype. With 2026’s Daytona opener on the horizon, McFarland’s decision could either catapult the Truck Series to new heights or test the limits of celebrity-driven racing. Will this digital ambassador ignite a motorsports renaissance, or will tradition resist the shift? The countdown to Ram’s return holds the answer.
