Cruz Ramirez becomes a racer after starting as Lightning McQueen's trainer in Pixar's Cars 3.
Cruz is introduced as a highly trained performance coach at the Rust-eze Racing Center. She uses modern exercises, simulators, and technical analysis to prepare McQueen for competition against Jackson Storm. Although she has racing ability, Cruz initially lacks confidence because she has been placed in a coaching role rather than given the chance to compete.
McQueen's training journey helps Cruz confront that limitation. After she demonstrates her talent, McQueen supports her entry into the Piston Cup race. Cruz ultimately takes over the race-car role in the final sequence, while McQueen adopts a mentor position inspired by Doc Hudson.
Cruz is voiced by Cristela Alonzo. She is not the same character as Sally Carrera, McQueen's friend in Radiator Springs, or Holley Shiftwell, the spy introduced in Cars 2. Her arc is central to Cars 3's theme of mentorship and renewal.