In Pixar’s Cars 3, which driver is Lightning McQueen’s principal racing rival?

Jackson Storm is Lightning McQueen’s principal racing rival in Pixar’s Cars 3.

Storm represents a new generation of highly engineered racers. He is younger, faster, and supported by advanced training and simulation technology. His success makes Lightning question whether experience alone can keep him competitive in the Piston Cup Racing Series.

The film contrasts Storm’s confidence and data-driven preparation with Lightning’s older racing style. After a serious crash, Lightning begins training with Cruz Ramirez at the Rust-eze Racing Center. Their partnership gradually changes from a coaching arrangement into a broader story about mentorship and opportunity.

Armie Hammer voices Jackson Storm, while Owen Wilson voices Lightning McQueen and Cristela Alonzo voices Cruz Ramirez. Jackson Storm is not the same character as Chick Hicks, the antagonist from the first Cars film. Storm is introduced specifically as the modern competitor who pushes Lightning’s career into its next phase.