In Pixar's Cars 3, the race that serves as the film's final competition is the Florida 500.
The Florida 500 is the season-ending Piston Cup race held at the Florida International Super Speedway. Lightning McQueen enters it after a difficult training period and a major change in his approach to racing. His principal opponent is Jackson Storm, whose modern technology and strong results have made him the leading symbol of the sport's new generation.
Lightning initially plans to race himself, but he later recognizes Cruz Ramirez's ability and gives her a chance to compete. Cruz starts the event in Lightning's number 95 and eventually races under her own number 51. She passes Storm and wins the Florida 500, while Lightning begins a new phase as her mentor and adopts a paint scheme inspired by Doc Hudson.
The Florida 500 should not be confused with the Piston Cup itself. The Piston Cup is the championship and racing series; the Florida 500 is a specific event within that competition. Cars 3 uses the race to resolve both the sporting conflict and Lightning's personal development.