In Pixar’s Cars, The King has won seven Piston Cup championships.
The King, whose racing name is Strip Weathers, is a veteran blue race car and a respected competitor. His seven championships establish him as one of the sport’s greatest drivers before Lightning McQueen becomes a serious title contender.
The King’s career is central to the film’s final race. Chick Hicks causes a crash that sends The King into the infield, and Lightning chooses to help him instead of taking an easy victory. That decision costs Lightning the race but earns him the respect of the racing community.
The King is voiced by Richard Petty, a real-life NASCAR legend who also won seven premier-series championships. The character’s name, number 43, and championship total are deliberate references to Petty’s racing career. The seven titles belong to The King; they are not Lightning McQueen’s total.