In Pixar’s Cars 3, which racer does Lightning McQueen train as his successor?

Cruz Ramirez is the racer Lightning McQueen trains as his successor in Pixar’s Cars 3.

Cruz begins as McQueen’s assigned trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center. She is a gifted simulator specialist, but she has not yet realized her ambition of competing as a top-level racer. McQueen’s training journey eventually reveals her natural ability and competitive potential.

Their relationship changes as McQueen learns that preserving his legacy may mean helping someone else succeed. Cruz’s story also challenges assumptions about which vehicles belong in professional racing. She ultimately becomes central to the film’s climactic racing turn.

Cristela Alonzo provides Cruz Ramirez’s voice. Cars 3 was released in 2017 and focuses on the transition between generations of racers. The character should not be confused with Sally Carrera, McQueen’s friend and the attorney associated with Radiator Springs.