In Pixar's Cars, what is the name of the Piston Cup's reigning champion called The King?

In Pixar's Cars, The King is the racing nickname of Strip Weathers. He is presented as an established Piston Cup champion and a respected veteran near the end of his career.

The King is a blue Plymouth Superbird-inspired stock car with the number 43. His design and racing identity pay tribute to Richard Petty, who voices the character in the English version. The number 43 is strongly associated with Petty's real NASCAR career.

During the three-way championship race, The King competes against Lightning McQueen and Chick Hicks. A deliberate crash by Chick leaves The King badly damaged, and Lightning chooses to help him rather than take an easy victory. That decision reinforces the film's contrast between sportsmanship and winning at any cost.