Richard Petty Net Worth: In the world of racing, few names hold as much weight as Richard Petty. ‘The King’ Known to many as “The King”, Petty’s career was more than just wins – it was shaping the sport you know today. As a legend off the track as well as on with his record 200 wins and seven Cup Series titles, he has no match. But separated from trophies and speedways, Petty’s is a story of family, legacy and the things that truly matter.
Quick Bio Table: Richard Petty at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Richard Lee Petty |
| Nickname | The King |
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1937 |
| Birthplace | Level Cross, North Carolina, USA |
| Age (2025) | 88 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Lee Petty (father), Elizabeth Petty (mother) |
| Siblings | Maurice Petty (brother), others |
| Profession | Former NASCAR driver, team owner |
| Famous For | Record 200 NASCAR Cup Series wins, seven-time champion |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Hair Color | Dark brown (graying) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Marital Status | Married to Lynda Petty (1958–2014, her passing) |
| Children | Kyle, Rebecca, Sharon, Lisa |
| Grandchildren | Several, including Austin and Adam (late son of Kyle) |
| Richard Petty Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $65 million |
| Education | Randleman High School |
| @therichardpetty |
Who is Richard Petty?
The King of NASCAR, Richard Petty, is a retired American stock car racing driver and owner, best known for his legendary success in the sport. Petty was born in Level Cross, North Carolina, on July 2, 1937 and became a racing legend as the son of NASCAR pioneer Lee Petty. Called “The King”, he has carved out a legendary career with 200 wins, seven Cup Series championships – both still unmatched in the sport even today.
Outside the track, Petty became a cultural darling — synonymous with his cowboy hats and sunglasses and his storied No. 43 car. He is remembered today not just as a champion, but also as being part of NASCAR’s evolving and prosperous business model, a family man and philanthropist who helped turn NASCAR into a mainstream American sport.
Early Life and Family Roots
Richard Lee Petty was born on July 2, 1937, in Level Cross, N.C., a tiny community that would be forever linked to racing history. Lee Petty, his father, was already an established driver in the sport and thus the Petty family name but stock car racing on the map. In a family where engines roared and racing was not just recreation, but a way of life, naturally Richard headed for the track.
He wasn’t the lone Petty to make a mark: his brother Maurice Petty followed and became an accomplished engine builder, creating the foundation of the family dynasty that molded NASCAR. That dynasty of the Pettys surpassed their time in competition to become an institution in American motorsports.
The Rise of “The King”
Richard’s professional racing career began in 1958, but his true breakthrough came in the 1960s and 1970s, when he established himself as the most dominant driver in NASCAR history. Fans dubbed him “The King”—a nickname that stuck and defined his public persona.
- 200 career wins remain a record in NASCAR to this day.
- Seven NASCAR Cup championships tie him with legends like Dale Earnhardt and Jimmie Johnson.
- Known for his iconic No. 43 car, Petty became as much a cultural figure as a sports champion.
His tall frame, cowboy hats, dark sunglasses, and friendly personality made him a beloved figure not only in racing circles but also in American pop culture.
Professional Highlights
Throughout his decades-long career, Richard Petty achieved feats that remain unmatched:
- Daytona 500 victories: Seven, a record.
- Consistent dominance: In 1967, Petty won 27 races in one season, including 10 straight.
- Awards: Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame (2010), among countless honours.
But for Petty, racing was never just about personal glory—it was about continuing the family tradition and ensuring the sport grew for future generations.
Richard Petty Net Worth
As of 2025, Richard Petty’s net worth is estimated at around $65 million. While his earnings came primarily from racing, endorsements, and team ownership, his empire extended well beyond the track.
- Racing earnings: Over decades of competition, Petty amassed prize money that built his foundation.
- Petty Enterprises: A family-owned team that became one of NASCAR’s most successful.
- Merchandising and endorsements: His brand, image, and iconic No. 43 car translated into lucrative deals.
- Petty’s Garage: An automotive business specialising in performance vehicles and restorations.
Unlike many athletes whose wealth fades after retirement, Petty’s careful management and family involvement ensured that his fortune remained steady.
Marriage and Love Story
In 1958, Richard married Lynda Owens; she predeceased him in 2014. Their marriage was a foundation of Petty’s private life, offering balance to the career that thrust him into the spotlight. And among the rumours over the years, there is no confirmed “new wife.” Of Petty, the love story with Lynda is one of the few constants of his life.
Children and Grandchildren
Richard and Lynda had four children:
- Kyle Petty – A former NASCAR driver himself, carrying the Petty legacy into another generation.
- Rebecca Petty Moffit
- Sharon Petty Farlow
- Lisa Petty Luck
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Richard Petty isn’t just a race car driver – he is an American institution. His likeness has been featured in commercials, on television and in animated movies like Cars. Behind the spotlight, he has dedicated himself to promoting various charities, especially those benefiting kids and families.
He’s still serving as a mentor, team owner and ambassador for NASCAR well into his 80s, and influencing the sport’s direction.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Away from the track, Petty has a passion for classic cars, life on his ranch and spending time with family. His cowboy hats and sunglasses are more than a trademark — they’re an extension of his character: uncomplicated, assured and convivial.
Nearly a generation into his retirement, he maintains strong connections to the racing world through appearances, events and his various businesses.
Education and Early Career Choices
Richard attended Randleman High School but didn’t pursue higher education. Instead, he threw himself fully into racing, learning from his father and honing his skills on local tracks. His career path is a reminder that passion, discipline, and talent can often outweigh traditional routes to success.
Social Media and Public Presence
Though not as active as younger stars, Richard Petty maintains a presence through Instagram (@therichardpetty) and official accounts run by his team. These channels highlight his ongoing work, appearances, and personal reflections, keeping fans engaged even decades after his prime.
The Family Moments That Matter Most
With all those wins, records and money, Richard Petty finds most value in family. He has talked about the joy of being a grandfather, the pain of watching loved ones leave and the pride that comes from seeing the Petty name live on in racing.
In so many ways, you can’t measure his legacy just in wins or dollars — it’s measured in friends that he made, family that he raised and teaching moments the rest of us learned.
Final Word
Richard Petty’s tale is about more than a NASCAR legend—it’s the story of a man wrestling between fame, fortune, and family. He is one of the wealthiest men in racing with an estimated worth of $65 million. But when history judges The King, it won’t see only checkered flags. It will reveal a husband, father, grandfather and man who always knew where his heart lay ― with family.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Richard Petty?
Richard Petty is a retired American NASCAR driver, nicknamed “The King”, and one of the most successful figures in motorsports history with 200 career wins.
2. What is Richard Petty net worth?
As of 2025, Richard Petty’s estimated net worth is around $65 million, built from racing, endorsements, and business ventures.
3. Was Richard Petty married?
Yes, Richard Petty was married to Lynda Petty from 1958 until her passing in 2014. They had four children together.
4. How old is Richard Petty now?
Richard Petty was born on July 2, 1937, which makes him 88 years old in 2025.
5. Why is Richard Petty called “The King”?
He earned the nickname “The King” because of his unmatched records in NASCAR, including 200 wins and seven Cup Series championships.
