Cruz Ramirez is the trainer who helps Lightning McQueen prepare for Jackson Storm in Pixar's Cars 3.
Cruz works at the Rust-eze Racing Center, where she uses modern training technology to prepare racers. Lightning initially doubts her methods because he is accustomed to traditional racing and because her simulations highlight how far the newest cars have advanced. Their partnership gradually becomes more effective as they learn from each other.
Cruz is not merely a technical assistant. She once dreamed of becoming a racer herself but lacked the confidence to pursue that goal. Lightning's mentorship helps her recognize her own ability, while Cruz helps him adapt to new training techniques and understand that his career can continue through teaching and encouragement.
Cristela Alonzo voices Cruz Ramirez. The character's yellow design and energetic personality distinguish her from Lightning's red body. By the end of Cars 3, Cruz becomes a racer in her own right, extending the film's themes of mentorship, opportunity, and passing knowledge between generations.