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Richard Petty Makes North Carolina History With State's

2026-09-20 · Richard Petty · Player Focus

Richard Petty is set to make North Carolina history this fall. The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion will receive the North Carolina Award, the state's highest civilian honor, on November 17. He is the first motorsports figure ever selected for the prestigious award.

Created in 1961, the North Carolina Award recognizes significant contributions to the state and nation in literature, public service, science and the fine arts. More than 300 people have received it. Petty was selected in the public service category. Governor Josh Stein announced the 2026 recipients, which also include retired Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen and former NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson.

Stein called the recipients the best of the state. For Petty, whose career is deeply linked to North Carolina's racing culture, the honor extends his legacy far beyond the track. The ceremony will be held at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh.

Petty, who serves as an ambassador for Legacy Motor Club, recently commented on the team's major driver lineup changes for the 2027 season. The team is expanding to three cars and replaced John Hunter Nemechek with Josh Berry in the No. 42 car. Petty offered a measured six-word verdict on the team's current competitive state.

"Right now we've not got that," Petty said, explaining the need for drivers who push each other. He believes Legacy must have drivers who can be competitive and race each other to improve. The team currently lacks that internal rivalry, which Petty sees as essential for top finishes and wins.

He pointed to the environment at 23XI Racing as a positive example. There, Tyler Reddick's five wins and Corey Heim's two wins in a limited schedule create a fierce competitive push. Petty's comments highlight the reasoning behind the team's drastic changes. Josh Berry joins Legacy after winning his first Cup race last year with Wood Brothers Racing and a recent streak of six straight top-10 finishes.

  • KEY TAKEAWAYS
  • Richard Petty will receive the North Carolina Award on November 17, 2026.
  • He is the first motorsports figure to ever win the state's highest civilian honor.
  • Petty stated Legacy Motor Club currently lacks the driver rivalry needed to compete at the highest level.
  • The team's changes for 2027 include adding a third charter and replacing John Hunter Nemechek with Josh Berry.

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