Richard Petty, the legendary American race car driver, has a net worth of $65 million. Throughout his career, Petty achieved remarkable feats, winning a record 200 races and securing seven Cup Series championships, cementing his status as one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history. His achievements on the track, including numerous poles and over 700 top ten finishes, contributed to his financial success.
However, Petty’s impact extends far beyond racing. He has engaged in philanthropic endeavors, such as establishing Victory Junction, a summer camp for children with serious illnesses.
Petty’s net worth is a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and contributions to both the world of motorsports and the broader community.
Here’s the breakdown of his net worth:
| Name: | Richard Petty |
| Net Worth: | $65 Million |
| Monthly Salary: | $100 Thousand |
| Annual Income: | $10 Million |
| Source of Wealth: | Race car driver, Voice Actor, Restaurateur |
Learn more: Richest Race Car Drivers in the World
Table of Contents
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in 1937 in Level Cross, North Carolina, Richard Petty was destined to follow in the footsteps of his father, Lee Petty, a prominent NASCAR driver. Richard’s passion for racing was ignited at a young age, and he wasted no time in pursuing his dreams. After graduating from Randleman High School, where he excelled as an All-Conference guard on the football team, Petty joined his father’s racing company.
In 1958, just after his 21st birthday, Richard Petty made his NASCAR debut at CNE Stadium in Toronto, Canada. His exceptional skills were immediately evident, and he was named NASCAR Rookie of the Year in 1959. Petty’s career began to gain momentum, and in 1960, he secured his first career win at the Charlotte Fairgrounds Speedway. However, it was in 1963 that Petty truly rose to prominence, winning races at esteemed tracks like Bridgehampton and Martinsville.
Record-Breaking Success
Throughout his illustrious career, Richard Petty shattered numerous records and set new benchmarks for excellence. In 1964, he became the first driver to win the Daytona 500 and the Grand National Championship in the same year. Petty’s dominance continued, and he went on to clinch seven Cup Series championships, a record that remained unbroken for decades.
In 1971, Petty claimed his third Daytona 500 victory, driving a Plymouth Road Runner. That year, he also secured his third Grand National Championship, winning an astonishing 20 races. The following year, Petty triumphed once again at the Daytona 500, marking his seventh and final win at this prestigious event.
The King of NASCAR
With an incredible 200 career victories to his name, Richard Petty rightfully earned the title “The King” of NASCAR. In 1984, he achieved a historic milestone by winning his 200th race at the Firecracker 400, solidifying his place in racing history as the first driver to reach such a remarkable feat. Petty’s unrivaled success on the track was further highlighted by his record 127 poles and over 700 top ten finishes.
Life Beyond Racing
Richard Petty’s impact extends far beyond the confines of the racetrack. After retiring from racing in 1992, he seamlessly transitioned into other ventures, showcasing his versatility and influence. Petty served as a color commentator for CBS television, sharing his expertise and insights with racing enthusiasts. He also became a spokesperson for various companies and brands, including Liberty Medical, Cheerios, Nicorette, and Goody’s Headache Powder.
However, it is Petty’s philanthropic endeavors that truly exemplify the depth of his character. In 2004, he established Victory Junction, a summer camp for children with serious illnesses. The camp provides a nurturing environment where children can experience the joys of outdoor activities, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. Petty’s commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others is a testament to his generous spirit.
Legacy and Family
Richard Petty’s legacy continues to shape the world of racing and inspire future generations. His son Kyle Petty followed in his footsteps, becoming a successful NASCAR driver in his own right. The Petty family, deeply rooted in racing, operates the Richard Petty Motorsports team and runs Petty’s Garage, a car restoration and modification shop in their hometown of Level Cross, North Carolina.
In addition to his achievements in motorsports, Petty entered the political arena as the Republican nominee for North Carolina Secretary of State in 1996. While he was ultimately unsuccessful in his bid, his dedication to public service reflects his desire to make a difference beyond the racing circuit.
Richard Petty Quotes
You can only live on the past for so long, and we kind of stretched our luck on that. We think we’re on the way back, but it’s just a matter of how quickly things come together. Common sense tells you it’s not going to happen overnight because we’re trying to catch up.
When I first started racing, my father said, “Win the race as slow as you can.
I didn’t miss out on a family life because of racing. I had one because of it.
If you ain’t trying to cheat a little, you ain’t likely to win much.
Now they’re getting so politically correct you can’t even stick your tongue out at somebody.