In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez takes over as the Rust-eze racer at the Florida 500.
The Florida 500 is the decisive race of Cars 3. Lightning McQueen begins the event as Rust-eze's planned competitor against Jackson Storm, but the race develops into a turning point after McQueen recognizes Cruz's ability and gives her the chance to compete.
Cruz starts the race in McQueen's place and uses advice he has given her, including lessons connected to Doc Hudson's racing style. Her performance turns the championship finale into a collaboration between generations rather than a simple final victory for the established hero.
The Florida 500 is fictional, although its name and setting echo real Florida motorsport events. Cruz wins the race, and McQueen adopts a mentor role while continuing to race in a new arrangement with the Dinoco team.