In Pixar's Cars 3, which racer is Lightning McQueen's chief next-generation rival?

Jackson Storm is Lightning McQueen's chief next-generation rival in Pixar's Cars 3.

Storm represents a new generation of racers whose speed and technology surpass the older Piston Cup competitors. His victories over established champions make McQueen realize that experience alone may not be enough to remain competitive.

The character is designed as a sleek, dark-colored race car with a modern aerodynamic shape. Unlike McQueen, whose identity is tied to years of racing and personal relationships, Storm is initially presented as a highly efficient competitor focused on results.

Armie Hammer voices Jackson Storm. The film uses the rivalry to explore athletic aging, technological change, and mentorship. Storm is not the same character as Chick Hicks, McQueen's principal antagonist in the first Cars movie.