I Am Not a Sexist': Racing Legend Stands By Danica Patrick Verbal Swipe

Story by the Associated Press; curated by Dave Urbanski

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Richard Petty stood by his comments that Danica Patrick can't win a Cup race and the Hall of Famer says it's unfair he has been labeled a sexist.

Richard Petty (Image source: YouTube raw video)

Petty said last week the only way Patrick could win a Sprint Cup race was "if everybody else stayed home."

Danica Patrick (Image source: Fox Sports via YouTube)

Speaking Saturday at Daytona International Speedway, Petty says no one would make a fuss about his remarks if he was talking about a male driver.

"I am not a sexist by any ways. I love women," Petty said.

NASCAR's career victory leader, Petty says he doesn't believe in being politically correct for the sake of the sport.

Petty says no one was talking about the Daytona 500 until his comments.

He says, "What I said is what I said and that's what I believe, OK?"

Patrick brushed off the criticism this week at Daytona 500 media day. She says he's entitled to his opinion.

Here's an interview with Patrick on Petty's initial remarks which precedes his comments Saturday: