Richard Childress Racing announced today that Garrett Mitchell, commonly known as “Cleetus McFarland” to his millions of YouTube subscribers, will compete fulltime in the ARCA Menards Series for the legendary race team in 2027. McFarland, an aspiring racer, entrepreneur and influencer, will race the No. 33 Chevrolet under the RCR banner and be paired with crew chief Robert Strmiska. Cleetus’ 2027 campaign marks RCR’s full-time return to ARCA Menards Series competition, building on the 57-year-old race team’s long-standing commitment to using the Series as a platform for developing emerging talent.
After making his NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series debut with RCR in 2026, McFarland’s transition to a full-time ARCA campaign marks the next step
in his racing career as he continues to develop behind the wheel while showcasing the sport to a large and engaged fan base.
“Cleetus has an undeniable passion for racing and a work ethic that has impressed everyone at our organization,” said Mike Verlander, President of Richard Childress Racing. “Cleetus is a perfect fit for RCR. He’s earned this opportunity, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can accomplish over the course of a full season. Pairing Cleetus with Robert Strmiska gives him the support of a talented leader who is equally passionate about racing.”
“This is a dream come true,” said Mitchell. “Ever since I got behind the wheel with RCR, I’ve wanted more. The goal has always been to become the best race car driver I can be, and running the full ARCA Menards Series schedule gives me that opportunity. Richard Childress and everyone at RCR believes in me, and having the support of a legendary team gives me a ton of confidence to focus on learning everything I can about stock car racing. I’m ready to get after it every week.”
Press Release: Richard Childress Racing
This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: Cleetus McFarland to run 2027 ARCA schedule with Richard Childress
