The Piston Cup is the trophy awarded in the stock-car championship in Pixar's Cars.
The first film begins with Lightning McQueen tied with Chick Hicks and The King for the championship. Because the three racers finish level on points, a tiebreaking race is scheduled at the Los Angeles International Speedway.
The Piston Cup is a fictional competition modeled partly on American stock-car racing. Its name also echoes the way real racing series use distinctive championship trophies and sponsor identities to build a recognizable sporting world.
McQueen's pursuit of the trophy establishes his initial priorities. Although he wants the title above everything else, his time in Radiator Springs teaches him that friendship, community, and fair competition matter more than simply winning a cup.