Dinoco Racing

Lore & Background

Dinoco's presence in the racing world is anchored by its owner, Tex Dinoco, a figure who has maintained ties to the sport through decades of competition. In Cars 3, the narrative takes a significant turn when Sterling attempts to force Lightning McQueen into retirement. After the Florida 500, during the post-race scene, Cruz Ramirez rejects Sterling's offer to be a trainer. After Cruz wins the Florida 500 alongside McQueen, she accepts a racing role with Dinoco. This moment marks a major shift, as Tex buys the entire Rust-eze racing team (including McQueen's contract) from Sterling, returning the brand's ownership to its original steward. The deal allows Lightning to continue racing under his new livery, which pays homage to his late mentor Doc Hudson.

In Their Own Story

During the Florida 500, the tension peaked when Sterling ordered Cruz Ramirez back to the training center, doubting her ability to race. Ignoring this command, Lightning McQueen made a split-second decision to let Cruz take his place in the final lap. With Lightning coaching from the sidelines, she overtook Jackson Storm using an old maneuver inspired by Doc Hudson. As Cruz crossed the finish line first, Sterling immediately offered her a spot on his team. She declined, choosing instead to join Dinoco under Tex's banner. This victory effectively made McQueen and Ramirez joint winners of the race, fulfilling Lightning's deal with Sterling while securing a new chapter for both drivers under the Dinoco umbrella.

Reader's Guide

For fans following the Piston Cup, Dinoco represents stability and legacy. Unlike the corporate maneuvering seen with Sterling at Rust-eze Racing Center, Tex Dinoco prioritizes the well-being of his drivers and the spirit of the sport. The brand's involvement in Cars 3 highlights a return to tradition after years of technological disruption. When Tex bought Rust-eze from Sterling, it ensured that Lightning McQueen could continue racing while mentoring Cruz Ramirez. This partnership underscores Dinoco's role as a guardian of racing history, bridging the gap between the old guard and the new generation.

Did You Know?

• Tex Dinoco purchases the entire Rust-eze racing team (including McQueen's contract) from Sterling at the end of Cars 3, allowing Lightning McQueen to continue racing.
• Cruz Ramirez rejects Sterling's offer to be a trainer after the Florida 500, during the post-race scene, and accepts a racing role with Dinoco after winning it.
• Richard Petty reprises his role as Strip 'The King' Weathers, while Humpy Wheeler voices Tex Dinoco in Cars 3, the short 'Miss Fritter's Racing Skoool' (2017), and other material.