In Pixar’s Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez replaces Lightning McQueen in the Florida 500.
The Florida 500 is the season-ending race that serves as Cars 3’s major competitive climax. Lightning McQueen initially enters the event after training with Cruz and attempting to return to championship form. When he realizes that Cruz deserves the opportunity, he encourages her to take his place on the track.
Cruz competes against Jackson Storm and other racers, drawing on the skills she developed while training McQueen. Her victory changes her career from simulator and performance trainer to professional racer. McQueen’s decision also allows him to continue racing on his own terms while supporting Cruz’s future.
The Florida 500 is distinct from the Dinoco 400 in the original Cars, which opens that film. It is also not part of Cars 2’s World Grand Prix, an international series held in Tokyo, Porto Corsa, and London.