In Pixar's Cars 3, who trains Lightning McQueen after he loses to Jackson Storm?

In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez trains Lightning McQueen after he loses to Jackson Storm.

Cruz Ramirez is assigned to coach Lightning at the Rust-eze Racing Center after high-tech rookie Jackson Storm defeats him. She uses modern training methods, including simulators and data analysis, while Lightning initially insists that he needs old-fashioned racing experience instead. Their different approaches create the central mentor-student relationship of the film.

Cruz is more than a trainer. Her own talent and racing ambition become increasingly important as the story develops. She has been discouraged from pursuing a racing career, but Lightning eventually recognizes that she has the speed, courage, and instincts needed to compete. Their roles ultimately reverse and then become complementary.

Cruz is voiced by Cristela Alonzo. Jackson Storm is voiced by Armie Hammer, while Lightning remains voiced by Owen Wilson. Cruz should not be confused with Sally Carrera, who is Lightning's romantic partner and a lawyer in Radiator Springs.