In Pixar's Cars 3, which character becomes the new Piston Cup champion?

Cruz Ramirez becomes the new Piston Cup champion in Pixar's Cars 3.

Cruz begins the film as Lightning McQueen's trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center. Although she initially lacks confidence in her own racing ability, she has strong technical knowledge and genuine talent. McQueen eventually encourages her to enter the final race against Jackson Storm.

During the climactic Florida 500, Cruz takes over McQueen's race car and competes against the next-generation racers. She wins the race, earning the Piston Cup for the Rust-eze team. McQueen then adopts the appearance of the Fabulous Hudson Hornet and becomes Cruz's mentor.

Lightning McQueen does not win the final race, and Jackson Storm is the defeated rival. Cruz's victory is designed as a handoff between generations rather than a simple end to McQueen's career.