In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez wins the Florida 500 after Lightning McQueen lets her race.
McQueen enters the race under pressure to prove that he can still compete with the younger, technologically advanced Jackson Storm. During the event, he realizes that Cruz has the speed and skill to challenge Storm. McQueen switches roles with her, allowing Cruz to take his place on the track while he becomes her crew chief.
Cruz starts the race uncertain of herself but gradually trusts the training and experience she has gained. She passes Storm and wins, giving the film a new champion rather than ending with McQueen reclaiming the spotlight. The result also fulfills Cruz's long-suppressed ambition to become a professional racer.
The Florida 500 is held at the fictional Florida International Super Speedway. Its outcome does not end McQueen's story; instead, he adopts a mentor role and continues racing in a new form alongside Cruz.