In Pixar’s Cars, which real racing champion inspired The King’s design and voice?

In Pixar’s Cars, The King was inspired by NASCAR champion Richard Petty.

The King is a veteran Piston Cup racer whose blue race car, number 43, and calm authority reflect Petty’s public racing identity. Petty also provides the character’s voice in the film, making the connection especially direct rather than merely visual.

Richard Petty is one of NASCAR’s most successful drivers. He won a record 200 NASCAR Cup Series races and captured seven premier-series championships. The King’s status as an admired elder champion draws on that real-world legacy, while the film places him in a fictional Piston Cup championship battle with Lightning McQueen and Chick Hicks.

The King should not be confused with Doc Hudson. Doc is also a former champion and an older mentor figure, but his design is based on the Hudson Hornet and his voice was performed by Paul Newman. The King’s defining racing reference is Richard Petty.