Cars | DISNEY THIS DAY | June 9, 2006

June 9, 2026

On this day in 2006, Pixar’s ‘Cars’ was released. Talented but arrogant race car Lightning McQueen discovers the importance of the journey, not the finish line, when he takes an unexpected detour to the sleepy Route 66 town of Radiator Springs. ‘Cars’ was the last Pixar film made before the studio was bought by Disney. John Lasseter’s family road trip down Route 66 led to the most research for any Pixar film to date. The setting was inspired by Gallup, New Mexico and the Sonoran Desert, but located in Arizona. [20 years ago in 2026]

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Mr. Daps is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Daps Magic, a premier Disney news community established in 2004. With over 20 years of experience as a journalist and media creator, he has become a trusted voice in the Disney fandom, appearing as an expert on KTLA, NPR, and the Orange County Register. Known for his signature trilby and bow tie, Mr. Daps provides optimistic, informed coverage of the Disney Parks, Pixar, and Marvel. He is the weekly host of Geeks Corner and a proud Her Universe Brand Ambassador. Follow his adventures on Twitter, Instagram, and Threads, or join the conversation live on the Daps Magic YouTube channel. If you see him at Disneyland, be sure to say hi!