What is the name of the advanced racer who challenges Lightning McQueen in Cars 3?

Jackson Storm is the advanced racer who challenges Lightning McQueen in Cars 3.

Storm represents a new generation of competitors built around advanced technology, computer analysis, and modern training methods. His sleek design, high performance, and confident attitude make him the dominant racer at the beginning of the film.

His success creates the central conflict for McQueen. The older champion realizes that experience alone may not be enough to compete with racers who are faster and supported by sophisticated data-driven teams. A crash during a race intensifies pressure on McQueen to retire.

Jackson Storm is voiced by Armie Hammer. The character is not the same rival as Chick Hicks, who is McQueen’s principal antagonist in the original Cars. Storm also differs from Cal Weathers and Bobby Swift, who are other racers introduced as part of the newer Piston Cup field.