Charismatic Facts About Richard Petty, The Humble King Of NASCAR
A Master Of The Track
Richard Petty, known as "The King" of NASCAR, is a racing GOAT whose record-breaking career cemented him as one of the sport's illustrious drivers. He dominated the track for decades with 200 career wins, seven championships, and an unmistakable blue number 43 car. Petty's name remains synonymous with excellence on the track and his place in a dynasty of racing greats—but Petty's success has gone hand in hand with some of his greatest tragedies.
1. He Is The King
They call him "The King" for a reason—no one has dominated the high banks and roaring straightaways quite like he has. Petty, a nine-time winner of the Most Popular Driver award, is instantly recognizable by his signature hat and sunglasses. His iconic hat, crafted by Charlie One Horse, has been a staple of his look since the brand's launch in 1980.
2. His Dad Raced
Born on July 2, 1937, in Level Cross, North Carolina, Petty is the son of Lee and Elizabeth Petty. Growing up around his father, Lee Petty—a NASCAR pioneer—gave him firsthand experience, knowledge, and inspiration, fueling his interest in racing. His path to becoming the king of NASCAR might have been very different without that early immersion.
3. His Entire Family Was Involved
The Petty family was a well-oiled racing machine, with each member knowing the part they played for the team. Petty's brother Maurice worked on engines, and his mother Elizabeth was a scorekeeper, creating a tight-knit crew that shared a closeness and passion for the sport. Belonging to a family where NASCAR was a way of life, it was only natural for Petty to carry on his father's winning tradition—that is, if he had what it took.
State Archives of North Carolina Raleigh, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
4. He Never Shied Away From Hard Work
Raised on the family farm, Petty learned the value of hard work early on, but racing was the true heartbeat of his household. Drawn to cars and mechanics from the start, he spent countless hours in the garage alongside his father, soaking in every lesson. Little did the young Petty know, but his family's name wouldn't just be part of NASCAR—it would become mythical if he stayed the course.
