In Pixar's Cars 3, which city hosts the opening race before the Florida 500?

In Pixar's Cars 3, Los Angeles hosts the opening race before the Florida 500.

The film begins with Lightning McQueen competing against a new generation of technologically advanced racers. The opening sequence takes place at the Los Angeles International Speedway, where rookie Jackson Storm defeats Lightning and begins a run of victories.

This race establishes the film's central conflict. Lightning is still a celebrated champion, but his traditional racing style is increasingly challenged by faster, data-driven competitors. After a crash during a later race, he receives an ultimatum from his sponsor: he must prove that he can remain competitive.

The Florida 500 becomes the major later test, held at the fictional Florida International Super Speedway. Cruz Ramirez ultimately races for Rust-eze there, but the opening Los Angeles race is the event that first demonstrates Storm's dominance. The two races therefore serve different narrative purposes.