In Pixar’s Cars 3, which racer wins the 2016 Piston Cup?

In Pixar’s Cars 3, Jackson Storm wins the 2016 Piston Cup.

Jackson Storm is a next-generation Piston Cup racer whose speed and advanced training make him the dominant champion when the film begins. His success convinces sponsors and commentators that older racers such as Lightning McQueen can no longer compete at the top level.

The 2016 championship establishes the story’s conflict before the Florida 500. Lightning’s attempt to beat Storm does not end with Lightning reclaiming the title; instead, Cruz Ramirez becomes the film’s winning racer. This distinction matters because Jackson is the reigning champion entering the story, while Cruz wins the later race shown in the finale.