In Pixar's Cars 3, who trains Lightning McQueen before the Florida 500?

Cruz Ramirez trains Lightning McQueen before the Florida 500 in Pixar's Cars 3.

Cruz is a young racing trainer working for the Rust-eze team. She uses modern methods, including simulator training and data analysis, to help Lightning adapt to the faster generation led by Jackson Storm. Their early sessions are difficult because Lightning is resistant to changing his habits and Cruz has little experience as a top-level racer.

During the story, Cruz's own talent becomes increasingly clear. Lightning recognizes that she is capable of competing rather than merely coaching, and he gives her the opportunity to race in his place at the Florida 500. Cruz wins the event, establishing herself as a new champion while Lightning begins a mentoring role.

Cruz is sometimes confused with Sally Carrera, Lightning's friend and Radiator Springs' legal adviser, or Holley Shiftwell, the spy character from Cars 2. Cruz belongs specifically to Cars 3 and the Rust-eze racing team.