Kyle Loftis, Visionary Founder of 1320Video, Passes Away and Leaves Lasting Legacy in Motorsports Culture

 Kyle Loftis, Visionary Founder of 1320Video, Passes Away and Leaves Lasting Legacy in Motorsports Culture

Kyle Loftis, founder of 1320Video and a pivotal figure in modern street car and drag racing media, has died. The company confirmed on Wednesday that he passed away Tuesday night, honoring him as a visionary whose passion for motorsports inspired millions worldwide.

In a statement, 1320Video described Loftis as someone whose energy, creativity, and kindness left a lasting mark on everyone he encountered. His influence extended far beyond content creation, helping shape the global street car scene into what it is today.

Loftis launched 1320Video in 2003—well before platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook became central to media distribution. What started as a personal hobby—capturing photos and sharing them on forums—quickly evolved into one of the most recognized brands in grassroots automotive culture.

Operating out of the Midwest, 1320Video focused on showcasing cars, drivers, and events often ignored by mainstream motorsports outlets. Its coverage spanned street racing, drag racing, dyno competitions, car shows, and major enthusiast gatherings, building a loyal following among fans worldwide.

As digital platforms grew, so did 1320Video’s reach. The brand played a key role in connecting underground street racing culture with a global audience, bringing attention to events such as Hot Rod Drag Week, Race Week, TX2K, FL2K, Cash Days, and Street Car Takeover. It also helped launch the career of Garrett Mitchell—better known as Cleetus McFarland—who created his first video persona while working with the team.

Mitchell expressed his grief publicly, calling Loftis the most influential person in his life and urging support for his family and close friends during this difficult time.

By 2026, 1320Video had amassed millions of followers across social media, including over 6 million on Facebook, nearly 4 million YouTube subscribers, and close to 3 million Instagram followers. Loftis built a dedicated team of creators who shared his vision of elevating car culture.

Photographer Scott Witty, a longtime member of the team, described Loftis as both a mentor and friend who made it possible for many to live their dream careers. He credited Loftis for building not just a company, but a community that changed lives.

For racers, builders, and fans alike, Loftis and 1320Video did more than document the scene—they helped define it. Their content brought visibility to grassroots racing, small-tire events, grudge matches, and drag-and-drive competitions, introducing them to audiences far beyond local tracks.

Loftis also reshaped motorsports media itself. His approach—relying on authenticity, accessibility, and consistent storytelling—proved that independent creators could rival traditional broadcast production. In doing so, he helped pave the way for today’s creator-driven automotive media landscape.

His legacy will continue to influence the sport and its storytelling for years to come.