In Pixar’s Cars 3, which racer becomes the new champion after the Florida 500?

Cruz Ramirez becomes the new champion after winning the Florida 500 in Pixar’s Cars 3.

Cruz begins the film as Lightning McQueen’s trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center. Although she is initially presented as a high-performance trainer rather than an established racer, McQueen recognizes her ability and helps her develop confidence on the track.

During the decisive Florida 500, Cruz replaces McQueen in the race and defeats Jackson Storm. McQueen then allows Cruz to continue racing under his number, 95, while he adopts a mentor role connected to the Fabulous Hudson Hornet’s legacy.

Lightning is therefore not the race’s final winner, even though the story remains centered on his career. Jackson Storm is the dominant next-generation rival, and Chick Hicks belongs primarily to the first Cars film.