Lightning McQueen (Cars)
Last Updated on: February 7th, 2026
Lightning McQueen 2026: The Next Lap
| New Land: | Piston Peak National Park (Construction in progress at Magic Kingdom) |
| Ride Tech: | All-terrain “Rally Race” (Estimated 2028 opening) |
| Status Update: | Racing Academy at Hollywood Studios is Permanently Closed |
| Merch Alert: | 2026 “Retro Route 66” Die-Cast Series (Now Shipping) |
Lightning McQueen, the legendary #95, is more than just a race car; he is the heart of Pixar’s Cars franchise. From his humble beginnings in Radiator Springs to his role as a veteran mentor, McQueen’s journey from “Street Rat” (of the track) to “Champion” has defined a generation of Disney-Pixar storytelling.
The Future of Piston Peak (Magic Kingdom 2026)
As of February 2026, the landscape of Magic Kingdom is changing forever. Construction walls now surround the former Rivers of America as crews begin the foundation work for Piston Peak National Park. This new land will bring Lightning McQueen into the heart of Frontierland with two brand-new attractions. Unlike the smooth tracks of California, the flagship 2026 project is an All-Terrain Rally Race that will see McQueen and guests traversing mud, rocks, and forest environments in a rugged off-road adventure.
Where to Find McQueen in 2026
While the Florida expansion is under construction, you can still catch “Number 95” in action across the globe:
- Disney California Adventure: Cars Land remains the definitive Cars experience. You can meet Lightning McQueen and Mater daily at Cozy Cone Motel and ride the legendary Radiator Springs Racers.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Note: Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy permanently closed in October 2024 to make way for the new Villains stage show (opening Summer 2025). However, you can still find DJ’s Ready! Set! Party Time! dance parties intermittently near the Sunset Showcase.
- Walt Disney Studios Park (Paris): Experience Cars ROAD TRIP, a reimagined tram tour that takes you into the world of Pixar’s racing stars.
Cars 4 Rumors & Cinematic News
The engines are revving in the rumor mill for 2026! While Pixar has not officially confirmed a release date, industry insiders suggest that a fourth Cars installment is in early development. Reports indicate the story may shift focus back to a “Hybrid Heritage” circuit, exploring the evolution of racing in a digital world, with Owen Wilson expected to return as the voice of the veteran racer.
The Collection:
Explore the Internet’s largest collection of Lightning McQueen-related movies, including the Cars on the Road series and the newest 2026 “Next-Gen Legend” apparel. From 1:55 scale die-cast collectibles to the latest Radiator Springs 20th Anniversary pins, we update our inventory daily to keep you in the pole position.
Movie Appearances
Cars 3
Cars
Cars 2
Show Appearances
Cars on the Road
Song Appearances
When You Find Yourself (Song)
“When You Find Yourself” is a song from the 2006 animated film “Cars” produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The…
Our Town (Song)
“Our Town” is a song from the Pixar animated film “Cars“. The song was written and performed by musician Randy Newman, who also composed the…
Life Is a Highway (Song)
“Life Is a Highway” is a song written by Tom Cochrane and performed by him as part of his album “Mad Mad World” released in…
Real Gone (Song)
“Real Gone” is a song from the soundtrack of the Disney/Pixar animated film “Cars“. It was written by singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow and composer John Shanks…
Mon Coeur Fait Vroum (Song)
“Mon Coeur Fait Vroum” is a French song that was featured in the 2011 Disney-Pixar animated film “Cars 2.” The song was written by the…
Collision of Worlds (Song)
“Collision of Worlds” is a song from the 2011 Disney-Pixar animated film “Cars 2“. The song was performed as a duet by Brad Paisley and…
You Might Think (Song)
“You Might Think” by The Cars is also featured in the 2011 Disney-Pixar animated movie “Cars 2.” In the film, the song is used in…
Run that Race (Song)
“Run That Race” is a song from the 2017 Disney-Pixar animated film “Cars 3.” The song is performed by Dan Auerbach, who is the lead…
Ride (Song)
“Ride” is a song from the 2017 Disney-Pixar animated film “Cars 3.” The song is performed by ZZ Ward and features the rapper Gary Clark…
Park Appearances
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy show at Walt Disney World’s Disney’s Hollywood Studios including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Disney Stars and Motor Cars Parade | Disney World
Here is everything you need to know about Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios’ extinct Disney Stars and Motor Cars Parade parade including history, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
Radiator Springs Racers | Disneyland
Here is everything you need to know about the amazing Radiator Springs Racers attraction at Disneyland including history, reviews, fun facts, photos and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!
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Lightning McQueen Plush – Cars
Our Lightning McQueen plush gains traction on soft shoulders. Sporting embroidered sponsor insignia and ”95” logos, he’s sure to be a winner in the race…
Lightning McQueen Crocs
Rev up your wardrobe with the Disney/Pixar Lightning McQueen Adult Clogs, a must-have for fans ready to race in style. These vibrant clogs boast iconic…
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Disney Cars 2 Race Day LEGO Set
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Disney Cars 2 Tokyo Racing LEGO Set
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Disney Cars Lightning McQueen LEGO Set
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Loungefly Disney Pixar Cars Firewall Falls Women’s Double Strap Convertible Mini Backpack Purse
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LEGO DUPLO Disney Pixar Cars Classic Race #10600
Build, race and play with Lightning McQueen and Mater! Create action-packed racing with the LEGO® DUPLO® brand Cars™ Classic Race set featuring Lightning McQueen, Mater,…
Lightning McQueen Funko Pop! Vinyl Figure (Cars)
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