Cleetus McFarland makes emotional Daytona 500 promise after tragic plane crash death of close friend Greg Biffle | International Sports News
Cleetus McFarland, the popular YouTuber whose real name is Lawrence Garrett Mitchell, made a very emotional promise about the Daytona 500 after his close friend Gregory Jack Biffle died in a tragic plane crash on December 18, 2025. Biffle, a beloved NASCAR champion, and his family were on board their private jet when it crashed near Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina. All seven people on the plane died, including Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, and their two children, Emma and Ryder. McFarland said he will honor Biffle by chasing their shared dream of racing in the Daytona 500, NASCAR’s most famous race. He explained that every time he climbs into a race car now, he does it for Biffle. McFarland’s ARCA Menards Series car will even carry the words “Be Like Biff” as a tribute message. This sign on the back of the car is meant to remind people to be kind and to follow Biffle’s spirit and heart. McFarland’s plan is to race in the 2026 ARCA Menards Series, starting with the General Tire 200 at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, 2026. He will drive for Rette Jones Racing as he moves closer to reaching the Daytona 500.
Cleetus McFarland’s tribute and Daytona 500 goal
Cleetus McFarland has been open about how much Greg Biffle meant to him. They became close as friends and shared a big love for racing. McFarland said during an interview that Biffle taught him so much about racing and life. He said, “I wouldn’t be here without Greg Biffle.” To carry on Biffle’s legacy, McFarland wants to reach the Daytona 500 and do it in a way that would make Biffle proud. The ARCA season in 2026 will give McFarland chances to show his skill on big race tracks like Daytona and Talladega. These races are stepping stones for drivers who want to reach NASCAR’s top levels. His Ford will be marked with the tribute message, and fans have shown huge support for his mission to honor Biffle’s memory. Greg Biffle was one of NASCAR’s greats. He raced in the Cup Series for many years, won 19 top-level races, and was named one of NASCAR’s top 75 drivers of all time. His loss has left fans and drivers deeply saddened. McFarland now carries forward not just his own dream, but the dream he shared with his friend Biffle. Also Read: NASCAR Legend Greg Biffle 911 Audio Released As Witnesses Share Scary Moments From The Plane Crash That Killed His Family
