Cleetus McFarland may be preparing to take his racing career to an entirely new level.
The YouTube star, whose real name is Garrett Mitchell, is reportedly set to compete full-time in the ARCA Menards Series in 2027. Reports from multiple motorsports outlets indicate that a full-season campaign is in the works.
If finalized, the move would represent a major step for one of the most recognizable personalities to cross over from online automotive entertainment into stock-car racing.
And it could create a fascinating storyline for NASCAR fans.
McFarland has already demonstrated that he can draw attention to racing events. Now, a full ARCA campaign would give him the chance to prove himself over an entire season against established competitors.
But is this the beginning of a legitimate racing career — or a publicity boost for a series that knows exactly how valuable his audience could be?
Cleetus Has Already Shown He Can Compete
McFarland is not simply an internet personality who decided to try racing last weekend.
He has competed in ARCA events and has shown flashes of genuine speed. In April 2026, he finished second in an ARCA race at Talladega. He also earned the pole at Michigan earlier in the year before finishing 14th after a late incident.
Those results offer a glimpse of both his potential and the challenge ahead.
Qualifying speed can put a driver in position to compete, but maintaining that pace over an entire race requires consistency, racecraft and experience. A full season would test all three.
ARCA provides a pathway for drivers hoping to climb the stock-car ladder. It also features competitors who have spent years developing their skills and fighting for opportunities.
McFarland would need to take that competition seriously if he hopes to turn attention into results.
His existing audience will make him one of the most closely watched drivers in the series. That attention will bring opportunities, but it will also bring scrutiny.
Is ARCA the Perfect Move for NASCAR?
From a business perspective, the potential partnership makes plenty of sense.
McFarland has a massive online following, and his presence can introduce younger fans to stock-car racing. NASCAR and its developmental series have spent years trying to reach audiences who do not necessarily watch traditional race broadcasts.
A full-time ARCA campaign could give those fans a reason to tune in week after week.
It would also provide McFarland with a more consistent racing schedule and the chance to improve through repetition. One-off appearances can generate headlines, but a full season creates a much clearer measure of a driver’s ability.
The key will be whether he can compete consistently against the field.
A strong qualifying lap or a dramatic superspeedway finish can generate excitement. Championship contention requires a different level of performance.
If McFarland can combine his audience with legitimate results, the move could benefit both his career and the series.
Could Cleetus Make It to NASCAR’s National Series?
That is the question fans will inevitably ask.
A successful ARCA season could strengthen the case for additional opportunities, but it would not guarantee a move into the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series or Craftsman Truck Series.
Those steps require more than popularity. Teams need funding, equipment, experience and confidence that a driver can compete at a higher level.
McFarland would have to demonstrate that he can handle the demands of a full season before anyone should assume a bigger promotion is coming.
Still, the possibility is compelling. NASCAR has long benefited from personalities who can bring new audiences to the sport, and McFarland has already shown he can attract attention.
The next challenge is converting that attention into competitive results.
NASCAR Fans Will Have Plenty to Say
A full-time ARCA campaign would put McFarland under a different kind of spotlight. Instead of occasional appearances, fans would have an entire season to judge his progress.
Some will see the move as a refreshing crossover that could bring new energy to stock-car racing. Others will question whether an internet celebrity can compete with drivers who have spent their lives pursuing the same opportunity.
Both sides will have plenty to debate.
For now, multiple reports point toward a 2027 ARCA campaign, but the full details of the program still matter. Fans should wait for formal confirmation from McFarland and the team before treating every rumored element as settled.
So, what’s your verdict? Is Cleetus McFarland a serious future NASCAR prospect, or is his biggest advantage the audience he brings with him?
If he runs a full ARCA season in 2027, will you be watching for the racing — or the entertainment?