In Pixar's Cars 3, what racing series does Lightning McQueen try to remain in?

In Pixar's Cars 3, Lightning McQueen tries to remain in the Piston Cup Racing Series.

The film begins with Lightning still competing in the Piston Cup, but a new generation of technologically advanced racers changes the sport. Jackson Storm becomes the leading example of the younger competitors, and Lightning struggles to match his speed.

After a serious crash, Lightning trains with Cruz Ramirez and searches for a way to compete successfully again. The story focuses on aging, mentorship, and the possibility of changing roles within a racing career.

The Piston Cup name connects Cars 3 to the original film, where Lightning first competed for the championship. Although the movie features modern training technology and new racing strategies, the central competition remains the fictional Piston Cup series.