In a candid conversation with Frontstretch’s Tanner Marlar, NASCAR Cup Series driver Christopher Bell opened up about two major talking points that are creating waves in the racing world: the shutdown of Venturini Motorsports’ ARCA operations and the unique energy that YouTube star Cleetus McFarland is bringing to the NASCAR scene.
While fans and insiders mourn the end of an era with Venturini’s ARCA program, Bell turned the spotlight onto a new face in the sport, praising Cleetus McFarland for challenging the status quo and helping NASCAR reconnect with its grassroots audience.
A Big Change: Venturini Motorsports’ Departure
Before discussing McFarland’s impact, Bell acknowledged the bittersweet news of Venturini Motorsports’ decision to shut down their ARCA operation. Known for grooming some of NASCAR’s brightest talents, including Bell himself, the team’s departure marks a significant shift in the developmental landscape.
“It’s tough,” Bell admitted. “Venturini has been a staple for so many young drivers coming up. It’s the kind of place where you could learn and grow without the pressure cooker of the top levels.”
The closure reflects broader changes in stock car racing, as financial challenges and shifting priorities redefine traditional pathways to NASCAR’s highest tiers. Bell’s comments reflect not just nostalgia, but genuine concern for the future development of racing talent.
Yet, amid the uncertainty, there’s a new wave of excitement—and much of it revolves around Cleetus McFarland.
Cleetus McFarland: A Breath of Fresh Air for NASCAR
When asked about the influence of personalities like McFarland, Bell didn’t hold back his admiration.
“I think Cleetus is awesome for our sport,” Bell said enthusiastically. “He’s not trying to fit into the mold that’s been set over the last few decades. He’s just being himself—and that’s something we desperately need.”
Cleetus McFarland, whose real name is Garrett Mitchell, rose to fame through his wildly popular YouTube channel, where he showcases a mix of car builds, wild racing events, and unapologetic patriotism. His “Freedom Factory” events and signature humor have built a massive fan base, many of whom are now getting their first taste of NASCAR through his ventures.
Bell noted that McFarland’s success shows NASCAR still has untapped potential among younger, more digitally-native audiences.
“He’s breaking that ‘political correctness’ mold that’s become almost standard,” Bell said. “For so long, drivers have been really polished and media-trained to say the right things. Cleetus shows that there’s room for real personalities, for fun, for being a little raw again.”
Why NASCAR Needs More “Real”
For years, critics have argued that NASCAR lost some of its gritty, grassroots charm as it tried to polish its image and expand nationally. Sponsors and big networks demanded a clean, safe brand—but at a cost. Many longtime fans felt alienated, missing the colorful, sometimes controversial characters that once defined the sport.
Bell sees McFarland as a bridge between eras.
“He’s got that throwback spirit where it’s okay to joke around, have fun, and not take everything so seriously,” Bell said. “But he’s also smart. He knows how to connect with people through today’s platforms like YouTube and social media.”
By bringing a raw, unfiltered energy back into racing, McFarland isn’t just entertaining—he’s helping the sport stay relevant.
A Call for Authenticity
Bell’s comments are a call to action for NASCAR to embrace more authenticity. As new stars emerge and the next generation of fans tune in, the future of the sport may depend on personalities who aren’t afraid to be themselves.
“If you look at where things are heading, you see a hunger for something real,” Bell concluded. “That’s why Cleetus is resonating. People are tired of corporate answers. They want to feel like they’re part of something genuine.”
With traditional teams like Venturini stepping back and new voices like McFarland stepping up, NASCAR stands at a crossroads. Will it stick to the polished image of the past—or lean into the vibrant, imperfect, and undeniably human spirit that made stock car racing a national phenomenon?
If Christopher Bell’s words are any indication, embracing the Cleetus McFarlands of the world might just be exactly what NASCAR needs.
