In Pixar's Cars 3, Smokey shares his racing memories with Lightning McQueen.
Smokey is the former crew chief and mechanic associated with Doc Hudson. McQueen meets him in Thomasville, a town connected to Doc's earlier racing career, while searching for a way to compete with the newer generation represented by Jackson Storm.
Smokey explains that Doc's career did not end because he lacked ability. Instead, Doc became discouraged after being pushed aside by newer racers. This history helps McQueen understand that a champion's legacy can continue through teaching and supporting someone else.
Louise Nash, River Scott, and Junior Moon are also retired racers McQueen encounters in the Thomasville sequence. Smokey is distinct because he was Doc's close racing partner and later becomes an important source of technical knowledge and personal guidance.