In Pixar’s Cars, which retired racer is known by the title “The King”?

In Pixar’s Cars, Strip Weathers is the retired racer known by the title “The King.”

Strip Weathers is an established Piston Cup champion who drives the number 43 car and wears Dinoco’s signature blue colors. He is voiced by Richard Petty, a real-life NASCAR legend whose own racing career strongly informs the character’s design, number and calm veteran persona.

The King is Lightning McQueen’s respected competitor and a symbol of the older racing generation. During the championship race, Chick Hicks causes The King to crash while trying to pass him. Lightning then stops to help The King reach the finish line, sacrificing his own chance to claim the title outright.

Strip Weathers is sometimes confused with Doc Hudson because both are older champions and mentors in the Cars universe. Doc is the Fabulous Hudson Hornet and Lightning’s mentor; The King is the Dinoco-sponsored racer competing in the first film’s final race.