In Pixar’s Cars, what is the name of the veteran racer nicknamed “The King”?

In Pixar’s Cars, the veteran racer nicknamed “The King” is Strip Weathers.

Strip Weathers is the established champion competing in the Piston Cup season alongside rookie Lightning McQueen and rival Chick Hicks. He drives for Dinoco and carries the number 43, a visual tribute to NASCAR legend Richard Petty, who provides the character’s voice.

The King’s role is larger than that of a rival. He represents experience, sportsmanship and the end of a long racing career. In the film’s final race, Lightning chooses to help him finish after Chick Hicks causes a crash, sacrificing a likely victory to preserve The King’s chance to complete the competition.

The character is distinct from Cal Weathers, another Dinoco racer who appears later in the franchise. Strip’s title and number make him one of the fictional racing world’s most recognizable figures.