Will NASCAR Allow Garrett Mitchell to Embrace Cleetus McFarland Persona?
Garrett Mitchell, better known as Cleetus McFarland, is making his debut in the NASCAR Truck Series, a moment that has generated considerable buzz. The YouTuber and amateur racer is navigating a complex relationship with NASCAR regarding his unique persona. The governing body has not explicitly defined policies surrounding name usage for drivers, leading to a captivating negotiation over his official racing name.
The Negotiation with NASCAR
During a recent press conference at Daytona International Speedway, Mitchell shared insights on his experience working with NASCAR. He revealed a humorous exchange, stating, “They were trying to put ‘Cleetus Mitchell’ on my Truck hard card. We settled on ‘Cleetus McFarland Mitchell.’” This reflects both his dedication to his brand and the challenges of aligning that with NASCAR’s regulations.
A Journey to Daytona
Mitchell’s journey to pursue a future in the Daytona 500 is rooted in a friendship with former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, who emphasized the competitive nature of the sport. “I’ve been really enjoying ARCA,” Mitchell noted, discussing how valuable the learning experience has been. “I want to take my time, and now I need to be ready to race this truck,” he added, highlighting his focus on gradual progression.
- Mitchell’s debut is part of a broader strategy to participate in various racing series.
- He aims to transition from ARCA to the Xfinity Series and ultimately the Daytona 500.
- His opportunities in NASCAR have been facilitated by connections, particularly with Travis Pastrana.
Building Experience on the Track
Mitchell acknowledges the steep learning curve of NASCAR racing. “The competition is intense,” he said, stressing the necessity of more experience on the track. His goal is to develop the skills needed to compete successfully, especially under the pressure of pit stops and race strategies.
Pastrana’s Support
Travis Pastrana has played a pivotal role in encouraging Mitchell’s aspirations. He believes that with dedication, the ambitious racer can achieve a spot in the Daytona 500. “I don’t want to lobby for a provisional,” Mitchell remarked, indicating his desire to earn his place through merit rather than shortcuts.
Future Aspirations
As Cleetus McFarland steps into the NASCAR landscape, his ambitions remain clear. He respects the skill of seasoned drivers and is committed to honing his abilities. This combination of humility and determination makes Garrett Mitchell’s journey within NASCAR an exciting narrative to follow.
