Who has the most wins in NASCAR Cup series?

NASCAR Cup Series has witnessed 83 different drivers that have won at least one race.

David Pearson (Left, credits: Racing News) , Jimmie Johnson (Middle, credits: E! Online) and Richard Petty (Right, credits: Essentially Sports)

In the exhilarating world of the NASCAR Cup Series, owned by Jim France, a select group of racing legends have etched their names in history with their unparalleled prowess and remarkable achievements. Tunnel through the annals of stock-car racing and unveil the top seven drivers who have left an indelible mark on the sport with their extraordinary number of wins.

With each race representing a triumph of skill, strategy, and determination, these legendary figures have repeatedly proven that they are truly in a league of their own. Delve into the awe-inspiring careers of these iconic drivers, exploring the records and milestones that have shaped the competitive landscape of NASCAR.

Discover: What is the difference between Formula 1 and NASCAR?

FS Video

6. Jimmie Johnson

Jimmie Johnson, the legendary race car driver, began his illustrious career in off-road racing, conquering the SCORE International series. Transitioning to NASCAR’s Xfinity and Cup Series, he secured 83 Cup Series victories, tying for the fifth-highest tally in history. Johnson’s unparalleled talent led him to an astonishing seven Cup Series championships in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2013, and 2016, along with notable Daytona 500 victories in 2006 and 2013.

His trailblazing legacy included an unmatched streak of five consecutive Cup Series championships from 2006 to 2010, earning him the title of Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year in 2009. In 2020, Johnson retired from full-time racing but continued part-time with Hendrick Motorsports.

Beyond racing, Johnson’s philanthropy shone through his foundation, supporting K-12 public education. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2023, Jimmie Johnson’s remarkable journey inspires racers and enthusiasts, leaving an enduring mark on the sport’s history.

6. Cale Yarborough

Hailing from Timmonsville, South Carolina, Cale Yarborough left an indelible mark on NASCAR history. His journey began in the 1960s, and by 1968, he claimed victory in four NASCAR races, including the Daytona 500 and Atlanta 500. Yarborough’s determination led to an impressive 83 NASCAR Cup Series wins, tying for the fifth-highest all-time. He secured three consecutive Cup Series championships from 1976 to 1978, becoming the first to achieve this remarkable feat.

With four Daytona 500 victories in legendary NASCAR Cup cars, which came in 1968, 1977, 1983, and 1984, Yarborough’s skill won the hearts of racing fans globally. In 2012, he was deservedly inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, honoring his exceptional achievements. Yarborough earned the National Motorsports Press Association Driver of the Year Award consecutively from 1977 to 1979.

After retiring in 1988, he continued his impact through team ownership with Cale Yarborough Motorsports and successful agricultural ventures. Cale Yarborough’s legacy as a NASCAR icon inspires racers, epitomizing grit, passion, and excellence in motorsports.

4. Darrell Waltrip

Darrell Waltrip, a NASCAR trailblazer, ignited his passion in the late 1960s, racing through the southeastern United States. With determination, he achieved 84 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, tying him with Bobby Allison for the fourth-most wins. Waltrip’s illustrious career includes three Cup Series championships in 1981, 1982, and 1985, with his 1981 season being particularly remarkable, securing 12 wins and his first championship.

Known for his aggressive driving style and versatility on various tracks, including road courses, Waltrip was NASCAR’s first “total package” driver, admired both on and off the track for his media savvy and attractive persona. In 1989, he added another milestone to his career, winning the Daytona 500.

After 809 Cup Series events, Waltrip retired from full-time racing in 2000 but continued his presence in NASCAR as a Fox Sports broadcaster, captivating fans with his insightful commentary. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2012, Waltrip’s legacy extends beyond racing and broadcasting, as he established the Motor Racing Outreach charity in 1988, showcasing his compassion and philanthropic spirit.

4. Bobby Allison

Bobby Allison began his illustrious motorsports journey in the late 1950s, leaving a lasting impact on NASCAR. With 84 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, he ties for the fourth-most wins in history. Winning the Cup Series championship in 1983 marked a crowning moment in his illustrious career.

Allison’s dominance at the Daytona 500 resulted in three victories in 1978, 1982, and 1988. He was part of the renowned “Alabama Gang,” a group of Alabama drivers who excelled in NASCAR during the ’70s and ’80s.

In 2011, he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, honoring his significant contributions to the sport. After competing in 718 Cup Series events and securing 84 wins, Allison retired from full-time racing in 1988 due to a severe crash at Pocono Raceway. Despite health challenges in recent years, Bobby Allison’s legacy remains an inspiration to racing enthusiasts worldwide.

3. Jeff Gordon

Jeff Gordon, a racing prodigy, began his impressive journey at five, excelling in quarter-midgets and securing his first championship at six. He dominated the NASCAR Cup Series with 93 victories, ranking third in history. Gordon’s skill earned him four Cup Series championships in 1995, 1997, 1998, and 2001.

Triumphing three times at the Daytona 500 in 1997, 1999, and 2005, Gordon showcased his versatility on diverse tracks, including road courses. Named one of NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998, he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2019.

After 797 Cup Series events and 93 wins, Gordon retired from full-time racing in 2015. He continued his connection with racing as a FOX NASCAR race analyst, impressing fans with his insights. A philanthropist at heart, he founded the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation in 1999. He opened the Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital in 2006, reflecting his commitment to making a difference in pediatric cancer research. Jeff Gordon’s legacy continues to inspire and impact racing and beyond.

2. David Pearson

David Pearson was a racing icon who made his mark in NASCAR’s Grand National Series in 1960, earning Rookie of the Year honors. His legacy includes 105 victories in the NASCAR Cup Series, second only to one, and three Cup Series championships in 1966, 1968, and 1969.

Pearson’s rivalry with Richard Petty became legendary, with 33 victories in their 63 clashes. He dominated the Southern 500 with ten wins, a record that stands today. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011, Pearson’s dedication to the sport was evident, never missing a race in his career.

After retiring in 1986, Pearson faced health challenges, passing away on November 12, 2018, at 83. His extraordinary talent, unwavering spirit, and contributions to NASCAR inspire racers and fans worldwide.

1. Richard Petty

Hailed as the “King,” Richard Petty is an American stock-car racing legend who left an indelible mark on NASCAR history. Following in the footsteps of his father, Lee Petty, Richard embarked on his NASCAR Cup Series journey in 1958. At the end of his career, he had an astounding 200 Cup race wins, a record that might never be broken.

Richard Petty "The King" — Richard Petty “The King” (Credits: CBS Sports)

He quickly proved his talent, earning the Rookie of the Year title in 1959 with nine top-10 finishes. In 1960, Petty secured his first Cup victory in Charlotte, setting the stage for a remarkable career. With an unmatched record of 200 NASCAR Cup Series victories, Petty is the most successful driver ever. He also achieved seven exceptional Cup Series championships in 1964, 1967, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975, and 1979.

His legacy at the Daytona 500 shines brightly with seven victories in 1964, 1966, 1971, 1973, 1974, 1979, and 1981. Beyond wins, Petty was an innovator, popularizing drafting and strategic skills that shaped the sport. Retiring in 1992 after 1,184 NASCAR events and 200 wins, Petty transitioned into team ownership, experiencing remarkable success with his team securing 268 wins and seven championships.

Richard Petty’s unparalleled talent, sportsmanship, and dedication to NASCAR earned him a place in the inaugural class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2010. His legacy continues to inspire and captivate the racing world, both on and off the track.