In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez becomes Lightning McQueen's trainer and later wins the Florida 500.
Cruz begins as a modern racing trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center. She is assigned to help Lightning prepare for a comeback after a generation of technologically advanced rookies makes older racers seem outdated. Lightning initially doubts her methods, but her knowledge and driving ability become central to his recovery.
At the Florida 500, Lightning changes strategy and lets Cruz take his place in the race. She defeats Jackson Storm and wins, beginning her career as a full-time racer. Lightning then adopts the role of mentor while continuing to race selectively.
Cruz is voiced by Cristela Alonzo. She is not Sally Carrera, Lightning's friend and former romantic partner, and she is distinct from the veteran racers who appear in the film's historical training sequences.