Social media influencer Garrett Mitchell, better known by his online persona Cleetus McFarland, has signed on to compete as a full-time driver in the ARCA stock car series for the 2027 season. Representing Richard Childress Racing, McFarland will pilot the No. 33 Chevrolet, working directly under the guidance of veteran crew chief Robert Strmiska. The move marks a significant shift for the content creator as he transitions into a dedicated pursuit of the ARCA championship.
Reflecting on the opportunity, McFarland expressed a drive to evolve his professional capabilities. He noted that his time behind the wheel with RCR ignited a desire for further growth. By committing to the full ARCA Menards Series schedule, he aims to refine his skills in stock car racing, buoyed by the support and confidence of the RCR organization. He stated that he is prepared to tackle the demands of the upcoming weekly competition. I’m ready to get after it every week.”.
RCR president Mike Verlander praised the newcomer’s dedication and professional approach, noting that McFarland’s work ethic has already made a positive impression within the team. According to Verlander, the driver is an ideal fit for the organization and has earned this developmental opportunity through his persistent passion for the sport. The team is currently focused on assessing his long-term potential throughout the rigors of a complete racing season.
McFarland’s path to this full-time role includes prior experience across various levels of the sport. He previously made four starts in the ARCA series during 2025, an inaugural run that famously included an early crash at Daytona, followed by his lighthearted remark about being the best racer there ever was. His broader experience includes participating in two NASCAR developmental series races this season, three additional Truck Series events, and achieving one top-five finish in his four total ARCA appearances throughout the year. His debut in the Truck Series occurred in February at the Daytona International Speedway, building on his previous experience in stock car environments since NASCAR acquired the ARCA series in 2018 as a training ground for aspiring top-tier talent. NASCAR in 2018 acquired the ARCA series, a launching pad for drivers looking to reach stock car racing’s top level. He crashed 17 laps into that one – and made headlines for saying he felt like “the best racer there ever was” for some of his driving moves.
