With fire-breathing robots and death-defying school-bus stunts, he brought spectacle to stock-car racing as the sport boomed in the 1970s and beyond.

"Cars" is one of the most beloved animated films ever, but the entire franchise is packed with racing lore and history. Several NASCAR drivers, including Bubba Wallace and Ryan Blaney, have made cameo appearances. One NASCAR legend who played a role in two of the "Cars" movies has passed away this week, and the racing world is in mourning.

Several NASCAR personalities have paid tribute to Humpy Wheeler, who passed away on August 20 at the age of 86. Wheeler made significant contributions to the sport and played a major role in upgrading Charlotte Motor Speedway during his time as the circuit's president and general manager.