The Florida 500 is the climactic race where Cruz Ramirez takes over for Lightning McQueen in Pixar's Cars 3.
Lightning enters the race under pressure after struggling against Jackson Storm and being told that his season may be his last. During the event, he realizes that Cruz can compete successfully and encourages her to take his place. Cruz then races Storm and wins the Florida 500.
The event is a Piston Cup race, but its specific name is the Florida 500. It should not be confused with the World Grand Prix, the international competition at the center of Cars 2, or with the Piston Cup itself, which is the championship trophy and racing series title.
The finale changes the series' generational focus. Lightning continues racing in a new role while Cruz becomes the driver carrying the Rust-eze colors. The outcome also echoes Doc Hudson's earlier influence on Lightning.