In a world where racing legends and digital stars rarely cross paths, a simple three-word comment has united two of motorsports’ most influential personalities—and ignited a wave of emotion among fans. Former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle’s heartfelt response to YouTube sensation Cletus McFarland’s father-son moment has become the talk of the racing community, offering a glimpse into the evolving culture of motorsports.

The Moment That Moved Millions

It all began when Cletus McFarland—real name Garrett Mitchell—posted a playful video on Instagram, capturing himself driving an all-terrain vehicle with his young son, Ripper. The caption, “What have I created?” reflected both pride and humor, but it was Biffle’s succinct reply, “the best feeling,” that truly resonated. In just three words, Biffle captured the essence of fatherhood and the unique passion that binds generations of racers.

The post quickly gained traction, with parents and racing enthusiasts alike sharing their own stories and reactions. For many, Biffle’s comment echoed the deep emotional bond that motorsports can foster between fathers and sons—a tradition as old as racing itself.

A Bridge Between Eras

Greg Biffle, known affectionately as “the Biff,” is no stranger to making headlines. With an estimated net worth of $30 million and a career spanning two decades, Biffle’s legacy is cemented in NASCAR history. From his early days in the NASCAR Winter Heat series to his 19 Cup Series victories, Biffle’s journey is a testament to perseverance and talent.

His rise began in the mid-1990s, when racing icon Benny Parsons recommended him to Jack Roush—a pivotal moment that launched Biffle’s professional career. Biffle quickly made his mark, earning the 1998 Craftsman Truck Series Rookie of the Year title and winning the championship two years later. His success continued in the Busch Series, where he was named Rookie of the Year in 2001 before clinching the championship in 2002.

These achievements place Biffle among an elite group: one of only three drivers to win championships in both the Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series, and one of just 36 to win across all three NASCAR National Series.

The Rise of a Digital Racing Star

On the other side of this heartwarming exchange stands Cletus McFarland—a content creator who has transformed his online popularity into a legitimate racing career. With over four million YouTube subscribers, McFarland’s reach extends far beyond the racetrack.

His family life adds another layer to the story. Married to Mattie Mitchell and father to two children, McFarland’s Instagram post featuring son Ripper was more than a viral moment—it was a celebration of family and motorsports. For McFarland, sharing his passion with his son is a natural extension of his own journey.

McFarland’s racing resume continues to grow. After competing in the Stadium Super Truck Series, he made his NASCAR ARCA Menards Series debut at Daytona International Speedway earlier this year. While his first race ended in a crash, McFarland remains undeterred, already confirming his return at Talladega Superspeedway in April 2025.

From Social Media to the Speedway

McFarland’s commitment to motorsports goes beyond driving. In 2020, he purchased a racetrack in Florida, renaming it Freedom Factory. The venue now hosts a variety of events, including the annual Freedom 500—a 100-lap spectacle where Biffle is slated to compete this year, further deepening their connection.

Their relationship extends beyond racing and social media. In September, Biffle and McFarland teamed up for rescue efforts after Hurricane Helen in North Carolina. Biffle, a licensed helicopter pilot, used his aircraft to deliver supplies, with McFarland joining in the humanitarian mission. The collaboration showcased their shared dedication to helping others—a trait that transcends the racetrack.

Mentorship, Humor, and Racing Wisdom

Biffle’s role in McFarland’s racing development is evident. After McFarland’s ARCA debut, Biffle offered both humor and advice: “You think Daytona was crazy? Just wait until DGA. I think I need to work on my driver coaching a bit so we don’t zigg when we should have zagged.” Biffle’s playful banter continued, “I basically taught him everything he knows about driving a car, and today he’s going to prove that. Now, if he does some dumb out there, that’s not me. I did not tell him to do that. Now, if he drives that thing to the front and gets the trophy and tears up that infield and we together don’t wear sleeves for two years, that’s what I taught him.”

This mentorship, laced with humor, illustrates the camaraderie that defines racing culture. It’s a blend of competitive spirit, encouragement, and a willingness to embrace the unpredictable nature of the sport.

Changing the NASCAR Audience

McFarland’s impact on NASCAR goes beyond his own racing achievements. His entry into the sport has attracted new audiences—viewers who might never have tuned in to a NASCAR event. During his Daytona race, McFarland’s in-car camera drew between 60,000 and 70,000 concurrent YouTube viewers, while the race itself attracted over 1.16 million viewers on Fox, making it the most-watched ARCA Daytona race in more than a decade.

His relatability as a non-traditional driver appeals to fans who see him as an accessible entry point into motorsports. Unlike many competitors who follow a conventional path, McFarland’s journey from YouTube to NASCAR offers a fresh perspective that resonates with a new generation.

Content Creation: The Secret Sauce

McFarland’s success is rooted in his strategic approach to content creation. As he explained on the Dale Jr. Download podcast, “You could have the best video ever made, but if no one goes through the door, what does it matter what’s on the other side? The door is the title and thumbnail.” He credits his growth to understanding the importance of effective titles and thumbnails, as well as the unpredictability of video performance.

“It also matters if you have a reputation or not. Like the Biff, you know, he’s starting a YouTube channel, but he already has an excellent reputation. If you’re just some kid making a YouTube channel, the world wants you to fail. The internet wants you to fail for some reason. That’s just how it works.”

McFarland’s evolution as a content creator reflects a professional mindset. “In the past two years, we actually switched from just doing fun stuff and recording it and then posting it to making sure it’s a title and thumbnailable idea, then doing the fun stuff and recording it and publishing it. And that’s made a significant upgrade to our channel and viewership.”

A New Era for Racing

The friendship between Greg Biffle and Cletus McFarland is more than a social media moment—it’s a bridge between the traditions of NASCAR and the innovation of digital content. Their interactions, both online and on the track, embody the evolving spirit of motorsports.

For fans, this connection is a reminder that racing is about more than speed and trophies. It’s about family, mentorship, and the courage to chart your own path—whether you’re a champion driver or a YouTube creator with a dream.