Richard Petty

Richard Petty, a legendary NASCAR driver known as "The King", holds the record for seven championships and an impressive 200 race wins, making him an icon in stock car racing history.

Auto Racing Driver

July 2, 1937

Cancer

87

Level Cross, North Carolina

Richard Petty, often referred to as “The King” of NASCAR, is a retired American stock car racing driver who achieved remarkable success on the track. Throughout his illustrious career, Petty won a record-breaking 200 NASCAR Cup Series races, including an impressive seven Daytona 500 victories. His dominance in the sport earned him seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, tying him with Dale Earnhardt for the most titles in history.

Beyond his racing achievements, Petty is known for his signature feathered STP cowboy hat and sunglasses, which made him one of the most recognizable figures in NASCAR history. He also holds the distinction of being the first NASCAR driver to earn over $1 million in career earnings and was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 1997.

One lesser-known fact about Petty is his passion for aviation. He was a licensed pilot and owned his own plane, which he used to travel to races with his family. His love for flying even led him to design a custom plane to accommodate his tall frame, ensuring comfortable air travel.

In addition to his racing accomplishments, Petty has made notable appearances in several TV shows and movies, including “Cars” and “Days of Thunder,” further solidifying his status as a pop culture icon.

Richard Petty’s contributions to NASCAR and his exceptional achievements have left an indelible mark on the sport. His legacy continues to inspire and captivate racing fans worldwide, solidifying his position as one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history.