In Pixar's Cars, what trophy are Lightning McQueen and Chick Hicks competing for?

Lightning McQueen and Chick Hicks compete for the Piston Cup in Pixar's Cars.

The Piston Cup is the championship trophy in the film's stock-car racing world. McQueen, Chick Hicks, and veteran racer Strip Weathers, known as The King, finish tied after the final race, leading to an unusual tiebreaker race in California.

The competition establishes McQueen's original motivation. He is focused on winning the cup, securing a new sponsor, and replacing The King. His priorities change after his time in Radiator Springs, where he develops friendships and learns to respect the people around him.

The Piston Cup is a fictional competition, but its presentation draws on American stock-car racing. Cars 2 shifts attention to the World Grand Prix, while Cars 3 returns to the Piston Cup circuit and explores how racing technology changes the sport.