Who crosses the finish line first in the final race of Pixar’s Cars 3?

Cruz Ramirez crosses the finish line first in the final race of Pixar’s Cars 3.

The result follows Lightning McQueen’s decision to let Cruz race in his place against Jackson Storm. Cruz had been introduced as McQueen’s trainer, but her performance in the film reveals that she has the ability and desire to compete at the highest level.

McQueen helps Cruz by sharing his experience and supporting her confidence. She uses his racing knowledge and her own skills to challenge Storm, ultimately winning the Florida 500. The ending changes the series’ focus from McQueen proving that he is still the fastest racer to McQueen helping the next generation succeed.

Cruz’s victory does not remove McQueen from racing entirely. The film presents him as a mentor and shows him adopting a new racing identity inspired by Doc Hudson. Cruz later becomes a prominent member of the Cars franchise.