The Tokyo race is the opening event of the World Grand Prix in Pixar's Cars 2 (2011). The international competition begins in Tokyo before moving to other major locations.
The race is organized by billionaire Sir Miles Axlerod as a showcase for Allinol, a supposedly clean alternative fuel. Lightning McQueen enters the event, while Mater becomes involved in an espionage plot after being mistaken for an American agent.
Cars 2 uses the World Grand Prix to expand the series beyond Radiator Springs and introduce an international spy-adventure structure. The later races take place in Porto Corsa, Italy, and London, England. Tokyo is therefore the first race, not merely one of the film's travel locations or the site of the opening party.