In a heartfelt tribute to a lost friend, popular automotive YouTuber Cleetus McFarland has made an emotional pledge to chase a shared racing dream. This follows the tragic death of NASCAR champion Gregory Jack 'Greg' Biffle in a devastating plane crash.
A Tragic Loss for the Racing World
The motorsport community was left in profound grief after a private jet crashed near the Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on December 18, 2025. On board were beloved driver Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, and their two children, Emma and Ryder. Tragically, all seven people on the aircraft lost their lives.
Biffle was a giant of NASCAR, having won 19 premier series races and earning a spot on the prestigious list of NASCAR's 75 Greatest Drivers. His sudden passing has created a void felt by fans and fellow competitors worldwide.
McFarland's Promise: "Be Like Biff"
For Cleetus McFarland, whose real name is Lawrence Garrett Mitchell, the loss was deeply personal. The two shared a close friendship bonded by a mutual passion for speed and competition. In a moving declaration, McFarland has vowed to honour Biffle's memory by pursuing their common ambition: to compete in NASCAR's most famous race, the Daytona 500.
"I wouldn't be here without Greg Biffle," McFarland stated in an interview, emphasising the mentorship and life lessons Biffle provided. He explained that every time he now gets into a race car, he does it for his late friend.
His tangible tribute will be a message emblazoned on his ARCA Menards Series car: "Be Like Biff." This slogan on the rear of the vehicle is intended to inspire kindness and to remind everyone of Biffle's generous spirit and heart.
The Road to Daytona Begins in 2026
McFarland has outlined a clear competitive path to fulfil his promise. He is set to race in the 2026 ARCA Menards Series, driving for Rette Jones Racing. His campaign will commence at the hallowed Daytona International Speedway with the General Tire 200 on February 14, 2026.
This series serves as a crucial proving ground for drivers aiming to reach NASCAR's top tiers. McFarland will get the opportunity to showcase his skills on legendary superspeedways like Daytona and Talladega. His mission has already garnered massive support from fans who are moved by his dedication to preserving his friend's legacy.
Cleetus McFarland now carries the weight of two dreams: his own and the one he cherished with Greg Biffle. His journey through the 2026 season will be a powerful narrative of friendship, loss, and the relentless pursuit of a goal meant to make a champion proud.
