Few NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debuts in recent memory have generated as much debate as the upcoming start by YouTube star Cleetus McFarland. The internet personality knows exactly what is outraging fans and insiders.
Cleetus McFarland Embraces Criticism Before Rockingham Debut
As backlash continues to swirl around his entry into the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race weekend at Rockingham Speedway, McFarland, whose real name is Garrett Mitchell, addressed critics head-on. He acknowledged the controversy while also delivering a clear message to skeptics.
McFarland’s inclusion has ignited one of NASCAR’s most polarizing conversations of the season. Traditionalists argue the opportunity highlights a growing trend where popularity and digital reach unfairly open doors typically reserved for drivers climbing NASCAR’s competitive ladder.
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Others see it differently, viewing McFarland’s participation as a smart business move for a sport searching for new audiences. Unlike many drivers entering NASCAR competition, McFarland built his career online first, amassing millions of followers through grassroots racing content and motorsports entertainment.
Rather than distancing himself from that reality, he embraced it. He openly admitted that social media awareness comes naturally to him. “I am a social media guy. That’s how I got in this position,” McFarland explained.
However, he rejected the notion that accepting the Rockingham ride undermines competitive integrity, arguing that nearly every racer who criticizes him would do the same if given the chance. “If Richard Childress called them and said, ‘You want to drive our car?’ all of them would have taken that opportunity too,” he said.
And in McFarland’s defense, NASCAR itself validated the opportunity. “If NASCAR is letting me do it, I’m in. No one can save me but myself. Once I get on that track on Saturday, it’s up to me. So, they can complain as much as they’d like, but it’s happening. So they better buckle up,” he added.
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On Saturday, April 4, McFarland makes his move in NASCAR as he gears up for a debut in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Rockingham Speedway. The YouTuber has secured a two-year deal with Richard Childress Racing to compete on a part-time basis.
This isn’t his first NASCAR race. Earlier this year, McFarland ran the Craftsman Truck Series race at Daytona, driving for Niece Motorsports. However, it was not smooth sailing. A crash on Lap 6 ended his day early, resulting in a last-place finish.
