Cleetus McFarland: From YouTube Sensation to ARCA Racer at Talladega
Lawrence Garrett Mitchell, better known by his online alias Cleetus McFarland, has become a prominent figure in the automotive world, seamlessly blending entertainment, entrepreneurship, and motorsports. Born on April 5, 1995, in Omaha, Nebraska, Cleetus embarked on his journey as a YouTuber in 2009, quickly amassing over 4 million subscribers. His channel, known for its high-octane content featuring car builds, drag races, and motorsport adventures, has garnered more than 1.8 billion views.
Why Is Cleetus McFarland So Popular?
Cleetus’s rise to fame can be attributed to several key factors:
- Authenticity and Relatability: He presents himself as a genuine car enthusiast, engaging with his audience in a down-to-earth manner.
- Engaging Content: His videos are a mix of humor, high-speed action, and behind-the-scenes looks at the automotive world.
- Community Building: Through events like “Cleetus and Cars” and “The 2.4 Hours of LeMullets” at his Freedom Factory racetrack in Florida, he has cultivated a loyal fanbase.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: Beyond YouTube, Cleetus has launched a successful merchandise line and performance parts brand, further solidifying his presence in the automotive industry.
Cleetus McFarland’s ARCA Series Debut at Talladega
In 2025, Cleetus took a significant step into professional racing by joining the ARCA Menards Series, driving the No. 30 Ford for Rette Jones Racing. His debut race at Daytona International Speedway was met with enthusiasm, drawing over 40,000 fans to his live in-car stream. Unfortunately, his race ended early due to a collision, but his spirited attitude and engaging content continued to captivate fans .
Building on this momentum, Cleetus announced his participation in the ARCA race at Talladega Superspeedway, a track renowned for its high-speed thrills. In the April 26, 2025, race, he delivered an impressive performance, finishing in the top 10. His post-race recap, infused with his signature humor and energy, resonated with fans and showcased his growing prowess on the track .
The Impact of Cleetus McFarland on Motorsports
Cleetus McFarland represents a new wave of influencers bridging the gap between digital content and traditional motorsports. His involvement in the ARCA Series has not only brought fresh attention to the sport but also demonstrated the power of social media in expanding its reach. Collaborations with platforms like FOX Sports and appearances on podcasts such as Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s have further amplified his influence, attracting a younger, more diverse audience to racing . Cleetus McFarland and Greg Biffle are two prominent figures in the American motorsports scene, but they come from different backgrounds and represent different eras and styles of racing. How did they end up connecting and becoming friends? During the North Carolina flood relief efforts, both Cleetus and Biffle showed up with their helicopters working hard to get supplies in and help to rescue victims and a friendship grew from there. Biffle is now a regular at the track with Cleetus and his crew or participating in the many social media videos!
As Cleetus continues to race and create content, his journey underscores the evolving landscape of motorsports, where passion, personality, and digital presence converge to shape the future of the sport.
