Ed Kowalczyk (LIVE), Nick Hexum (311), Aloe Blacc and Matt Sorum Lead the Lineup for Star-Studded Show
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The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach announced that Kings of Chaos, the celebrated all-star rock collective created by legendary Guns N’ Roses drummer Matt Sorum, will headline the iconic event’s Saturday night, April 18, concert.
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The high-energy show will feature special guest singers Ed Kowalczyk of LIVE, Nick Hexum of 311 and Aloe Blacc, along with renowned guitarist Orianthi, delivering a can’t-miss night of live music.
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The concert will take place on the stage outside the Long Beach Terrace Theater at the heart of the Acura Grand Prix’s festive atmosphere at 6:30 PM. The concert is free for all Saturday ticket holders, making it an incredible bonus for race fans enjoying the high-speed thrills of the weekend.
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Known for once-in-a-lifetime collaborations and surprise-filled performances, Kings of Chaos has earned a reputation for bringing together elite talent for electrifying live shows. The lineup, in addition to Kowalczyk, Hexum, Blacc and Orianthi, will feature Sorum (drums), James LoMenzo (from Megadeth, bass) and Nuno Bettencourt (from Extreme, guitar). The setlist will include hits from LIVE, 311 and Aloe Blacc, as well as a few surprise covers of other artists.
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“I’m honored to play the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach with Kings of Chaos – where speed meets rock & roll,” said Sorum.
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Added Hexum, “Looking forward to jamming with the monster players in Kings of Chaos! Matt Sorum and I have been friends going back 30 years and it’s going to be great to rock out with him. Let there be chaos!”
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“Long Beach is all about big moments and this is another one,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO Jim Michaelian. “As always, Kings of Chaos brings a powerhouse lineup that matches the energy of race weekend, and having Ed Kowalczyk, Nick Hexum, Aloe Blacc and Orianthi as part of this show will be the perfect way for our fans to finish off an exhilarating Saturday of entertainment on-track and off.”
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The Saturday night concert is part of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend experience, featuring world-class racing, concerts and entertainment, interactive exhibits in the AAA Travel Lifestyle Expo, a wide array of food and beverage offerings, and family fun for fans of all ages.
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On the racetrack, the weekend will be headlined by the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with support from the Super Drift Challenge under the lights on Friday and Saturday nights, plus doubleheader action from Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium Super Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup North America and the Historic Sports Car Challenge, featuring muscle cars that competed on road and street courses from the 1970s through 1991.
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Saturday ticket prices start at $104 for a General Admission ticket to $221 for a three-day ticket that includes Sat./Sun. reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a wide variety of hospitality packages. As always. children 12 years and under will be admitted free with a ticketed adult, although they will need a Junior ticket to sit in the grandstands.
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Fans can select and pay for their 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.
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The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach can be followed on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).

The City of Long Beach, in partnership with the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, announced today the honorees for the 2026 Motorsports Walk of Fame, NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver Alexander Rossi and the late Mayor Robert “Bob” Foster. The honorees will be inducted during a public ceremony on Thursday, April 16, ahead of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, April 17-19. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Walk of Fame.
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“As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of our Long Beach Motorsports Hall of Fame, it is our privilege to honor two legends who have been instrumental in shaping the history of the Grand Prix of Long Beach and the racing world,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “This year, we are celebrating the accomplishments of the two-time Long Beach winning driver Alexander Rossi and paying a meaningful tribute to the life and legacy of our beloved Mayor Bob Foster, whose dedication and leadership guided our city through some of its most challenging times.”
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Rossi and Mayor Foster will be inducted into the Walk of Fame during a free, open-to-the-public ceremony at 11 a.m. in front of the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center on South Pine Avenue. During the ceremony, each honoree will unveil a 22-inch bronze medallion featuring renditions and descriptions of their major achievements, enshrining their contributions to motorsports on the Walk of Fame.
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“It’s an absolute honor to induct Alexander and Mayor Foster into our Walk of Fame,” said First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas. “To be able to bestow this lasting recognition of these two individuals will enshrine the legacy they have left on the racing world and our City’s sporting history.”
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“The Walk of Fame is a prestigious mark of honor and esteem that acknowledges the immeasurable contributions to our city and racing history,” said Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen. “It is with great pride that we cement our late Mayor Bob Foster lasting influence and Alexander’s impressive racing legacy on our beautiful shoreline.”
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Rossi, an eight-time INDYCAR race winner, is one of the most successful American drivers of his generation, scoring and competing at the highest levels of international motorsport. Long before the Nevada City-native became a global racing star, he kicked off his career at just 10 years old racing go-karts, winning multiple national and international karting championships in the first few years. In 2016, Rossi made history when he became the first rookie to win the Indianapolis 500 since 2001, and the first American rookie to win since 1928.
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At 34, his impressive racing resume includes two Grand Prix of Long Beach wins, plus victories in Formula 2, World Series by Renault and the 24 Hours of Daytona, along with starts in Formula 1, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Baja 1000 and Bathurst 1000. To date, Rossi has gathered 97 Top 10 finishes, including 52 Top 5s and 30 podiums. The famed racer also celebrated a new milestone last year — becoming a father to his son, Ben, with his wife, Kelly.
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Mayor Foster served two terms as Mayor of Long Beach from 2006 to 2014 through the worst economic downturn the City had seen since the Great Depression. Foster utilized his previous leadership experience as President of Southern California Edison and Chief of Staff for the Senate Public Utilities and the Transit and Energy Committee to navigate the instability the City faced. Under his leadership, the City achieved its first budget surplus in 14 years and the lowest violent crime rates seen in more than four decades.  
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Beyond City Hall, Foster’s impact was also significant. After he left office, the widely respected leader and dedicated public servant continued to serve Long Beach on local nonprofit and community boards. His unwavering support for the Grand Prix of Long Beach helped strengthen the city's role as a premier racing destination. Mayor Foster, who passed away in November 2025 at age 78, was admired for his sharp wit, authenticity and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Mayor Foster’s wife, Nancy Foster, will accept the honor on her late husband’s behalf.
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“On behalf of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, it’s a tremendous honor for us to welcome Alexander Rossi and Bob Foster into the Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, LLC President and CEO Jim Michaelian, a Walk of Fame inductee in 2025. “Alex has delivered two unforgettable wins on our streets, always competing at the highest level and earning the respect of our fans for his talent and determination. And Mayor Foster’s leadership and longtime support helped strengthen Long Beach’s identity as a world-class special event destination. Their inductions celebrate two very different – but equally important – contributions to the legacy of the Grand Prix in Long Beach.”
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Following the ceremony, Rossi will be available to sign autographs.
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The Motorsports Walk of Fame is a joint project of the City of Long Beach and the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. It was created in 2006 to honor key contributors to the sport of auto racing, with Dan Gurney and Phil Hill as the inaugural honorees, both of whom greatly contributed to the success of the early days of the Grand Prix of Long Beach. Since then, 40 honorees have been recognized. The Walk of Fame is located in front of the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment building, across from The Pike at Rainbow Harbor entertainment complex on South Pine Avenue. New members are inducted every year as part of the week-long series of events leading up to the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Motorsports Walk of Fame took a hiatus in 2021 due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, visit lbmotorsportswof.com.
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The induction ceremony kicks off the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend which brought more than 200,000 people to Downtown Long Beach in 2025. For more information, visit gplb.com, call 888.827.7333, or follow the race on Facebook at GrandPrixLB, X @GPLongBeach (#AGPLB), Instagram @GPLongBeach, TikTok @GPLongBeach and YouTube @GPLongBeach.

The roar of engines may still be weeks away, but the transformation of city streets into a world-class racing circuit is officially underway as track construction began Thursday for the April 17-19 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.

Over the next 50 days, more than 2,400 concrete blocks that anchor the safety system around the 1.97-mile, 11-turn racing circuit will be placed along with 14 large grandstands that line the racecourse. More than 200,000 fans attended the 50th anniversary race last year, the event’s best attendance since the 2008 Indy car “reunification.”

Today, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, Assistant Manager of Acura Regional Marketing Todd Knepp, LiUNA Local 1309 President Nick Santos and Treasurer Steven Mendoza joined Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO Jim Michaelian and General Manager Jim Liaw to drop a ceremonial concrete block commemorating the start of track construction in what will become Turn 10 of the racecourse.

They were joined by three Acura vehicles celebrating the company’s 40th anniversary: a 2001 Acura Integra Type R, an official Integra pace car, and an IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GT Prototype.

“The Acura Grand Prix is one of the largest economic drivers to our city,” said Richardson. “Last year, we generated about $60 million in economic impact and we welcomed 200,000 people to our coastline. And what’s unique about the event is that it allows us to showcase the city and for folks to experience the Long Beach vibe, our culture. Great people, great food, great diversity, and in two years, we welcome the world for the Olympic and Paralympic games. Right here where we are standing will be a venue for the Olympic games.”

“We’re coming off a very successful 50th anniversary celebration last year and we are planning to build on that success,” said Michaelian. “This is always a great day because the moment we begin building the racetrack is when it all truly comes to life. You can feel the energy start to build across the city as our team transforms the streets of Long Beach into a world-class racing venue. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re not just preparing for a race – we’re setting the stage for a memorable weekend in our beautiful community.”

In total, Grand Prix Director of Operations Dwight Tanaka, LIUNA Local 1309 and Grand Prix Operations staff will put in more than 33,000 working hours installing the safety system – more than 24 million pounds of concrete blocks, four miles of fencing and 17,000 bolted-together tires – along with 14 grandstands, seven pedestrian bridges and nine giant vision boards for full-circuit TV coverage.

Tanaka’s staff will also install 60 high-end hospitality suites, three hospitality clubs, tents, electrical lines and equipment, phones, porta-johns, trash containers and a myriad of other items around the track.

The eastern portion of the racetrack (Turns 9, 10 and 11) will also be used for Round One of the eight-event 2026 Formula Drift season April 10-11, and part of the circuit will be used as a running course for the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach’s 8th Annual Grand Prix 5K Run on Sunday morning, April 12.

All businesses along the race circuit which includes Shoreline Drive, Aquarium Way and Pine Ave., will remain open during construction of the racetrack.

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will be headlined by the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. In addition, the weekend will include the Super Drift Challenge under the lights on Friday and Saturday nights, plus doubleheader action from Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium Super Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup North America and the Historic Sports Car Challenge, featuring muscle cars that competed on road and street courses from the 1970s through 1991.

Ticket prices range from $56 for a Friday General Admission ticket to $221 for a three- day ticket that includes Sat./Sun. reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a wide variety of hospitality packages. As always. children 12 years and under will be admitted free with a ticketed adult, although they will need a Junior ticket to sit in the grandstands.

Fans can select and pay for their 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach can be followed on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, set to take place April 17-19, announced that Jerome’s Furniture has joined the event as the Official Furniture Supplier, bringing comfort, style, and elevated guest experiences to one of North America’s most iconic street races.

As the Official Furniture Supplier, Jerome’s will provide curated furnishings to help transform select hospitality spaces and event environments throughout race weekend, enhancing the overall atmosphere for VIP guests, partners, and fans.

In addition, Jerome’s is taking its “Best Seat in the House” experience to the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, giving three lucky prize winners the ultimate VIP race weekend. Each winner will receive exclusive access including a pair of Pit Lane Club passes, including access to the Pit Lane Club, circuit admission, NTT INDYCAR Series paddock access, and food and drinks, pit access, parking, and more – a once-in-a-lifetime fan experience. Fans can enter for a chance to win by visiting jeromes.com and signing up. No purchase is necessary.

“The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is an iconic Southern California event, and we’re proud to be part of something that brings our community together,” said Jim Navarra, Jerome's 3rd Generation Owner and CEO. “After more than 70 years serving local families, partnering with an event that celebrates Southern California energy and innovation feels like a natural fit. We’re excited to connect with fans during the event and continue delivering expert knowledge, honest value, and great service for generations to come.”

“Jerome’s Furniture is a trusted Southern California brand, and we’re proud to welcome them to the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach sponsor family as our Official Furniture Supplier,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “Their partnership will help us elevate the look and comfort of key event spaces while engaging our fans through their exciting ‘Best Seat in the House’ promotion.”

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend features world-class racing, superstar drivers, and a full slate of on-track action and off-track experiences throughout the three-day event.

In addition to featured NTT INDYCAR SERIES and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship events, the 2026 event will also host the Formula DRIFT Super Drift Challenge on Friday and Saturday nights and doubleheaders Saturday and Sunday from Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium SUPER Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup and the Historic Sports Car Challenge, featuring muscle cars that competed on road and street courses from the 1970s through 1991.

Off-the-track, there will be Friday and Saturday evening concerts, food trucks, exotic car displays, driver autograph sessions and a wide variety of activities for the whole family.

Ticket prices range from $56 for a Friday General Admission ticket to $221 for a three- day ticket that includes Sat./Sun. reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a wide variety of hospitality packages. As always. children 12 years and under will be admitted free with a ticketed adult, although they will need a Junior ticket to sit in the grandstands.

Fans can select and pay for their 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach can be followed on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).

President & CEO Jim Michaelian Transitioning to New Role Effective June 30; Jim Liaw Named as Replacement

The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, organizers of the annual Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, announced that President and CEO Jim Michaelian will assume a new role in Penske Entertainment effective June 30, 2026, and that Jim Liaw has been named as the organization’s new President and CEO, starting July 1, 2026.

Michaelian, 82, who has been a part of the Grand Prix Association since its founding in 1975, has served as Controller, Chief Operating Officer and was named President & CEO in Dec. 2001. He has served on the boards of the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, Visit Long Beach and the Los Angeles Sports Council over the years.

Michaelian will continue to guide the event and company through the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend and will work closely with Liaw to ensure a smooth leadership transition. On February 9, 2026, Liaw, 50, will assume the temporary title of General Manager for the 2026 event.

“Leading the Grand Prix Association and the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach has been the privilege of a lifetime,” said Michaelian. “This event and this community mean a great deal to me, and I’m proud of what our team has built together. Coming off our very successful 50th celebration, I feel this is the right time to make this transition. For 50 years, I have been given the unique opportunity to merge my passion for motorsports with involvement with the longest-running street race in America, which has been a distinct privilege.

“I’m grateful to the City of Long Beach, our sponsor partners, participants, volunteers, and fans for their continued support, and thanks also to Chris Pook, the originator of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, and Kevin Kalkhoven and Jerry Forsythe for their invaluable support during the challenging times in the past 50 years. And with the leadership of Penske Entertainment, the new owners of the Grand Prix Association, the future of the event is in excellent hands.”

Michaelian, a competitive sports car racer who, for more than 25 years has competed at such tracks as LeMans, Daytona, Nürburgring, and Sebring, hopes to be able to participate in a few more events before hanging up his helmet.

Liaw brings extensive motorsports industry experience and leadership from his position as General Manager of Performance Racing Industry (PRI), an organization that supports and advocates for the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies, and businesses. PRI runs the largest annual motorsports trade show in the world.

An entrepreneur by nature, Liaw has leveraged his experience and passion for motorsports into a successful career that has introduced and launched some of the hottest youth culture programs in America. Prior to joining PRI in 2021, Liaw served as President of Formula Drift, which he co-founded with Ryan Sage in 2003 and helped turn into the premier drifting series in the world. He and Sage were the first to take the unknown motorsport of drifting out of Japan and introduce it to America, eventually making it the global benchmark for professional drifting. Formula Drift’s invitational “Super Drift Challenge” has been a fixture at the Grand Prix since 2005.

“I’m honored to join the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach and to help lead one of the most recognized and respected events in motorsports,” said Liaw. “The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is incredibly meaningful to me – it was the first major race I ever attended nearly 30 years ago, and it helped spark a lifelong connection to motorsports. Southern California has been home since I was six, so it’s truly an honor to represent Long Beach and the region while leading such a special event. I’m excited to be part of this iconic race and to help shape its future for generations to come.”

When he’s not binge-watching historical documentaries or traveling, Liaw enjoys spending time with his wife, Angela, and their two daughters.

“INDYCAR owes an immense debt of gratitude to Jim Michaelian,” Penske Entertainment Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles said. “From Day One, his guidance, management and exemplary leadership, has made the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach a marquee event and a beloved fan-favorite on the NTT INDYCAR SERIES calendar. I know our paddock – past and present – and decades of racing champions and legends join me in congratulating Jim on the impactful legacy he leaves.

“As we look to the future, we believe Jim Liaw is an ideal fit to expand the recent growth and popularity of a race weekend, which is strategically important and a big priority for INDYCAR. His unique background and passion for motorsports will serve this historic event in a powerful way.”

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will take place April 17-19, 2026. For the latest news and information on the event, visit gplb.com or follow on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).

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The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach today announced the network broadcast times for the two featured races at the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, set for April 17–19, 2026.

The third round of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship will air Saturday, April 18, at 1 p.m. PT/4 p.m. ET on NBC, while the fifth round of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES® will air on FOX Sunday, April 19, at 2:30 p.m. PT/5:30 p.m. ET.

This marks the first time that both premier events at the seaside circuit will be broadcast on network television on the same weekend.

“This is a major milestone for our event and for race fans,” said Jim Michaelian, Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO. “Having our two featured races televised live on network television during the same Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach race weekend speaks to the strength of this event, the demand for these premier series, and the incredible stage that Long Beach provides for them and our fans year after year.”

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend features world-class racing, superstar drivers, and a full slate of on-track action and off-track experiences throughout the three-day event.

Fans are encouraged to check local listings for the most up-to-date broadcast details and supplemental coverage information as race weekend approaches. For tickets, event information, and the latest updates, visit gplb.com.

In addition to the two featured events, the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will also host the Formula DRIFT Super Drift Challenge on Friday and Saturday nights and doubleheaders Saturday and Sunday from Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium SUPER Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup and the Historic Sports Car Challenge, featuring muscle cars that competed on road and street courses from the 1970s through 1991.

Off the track, there will be Friday and Saturday evening concerts, food trucks, exotic car displays, driver autograph sessions and a wide variety of activities for the whole family.

Ticket prices range from $56 for a Friday General Admission ticket to $221 for a three- day ticket that includes Sat./Sun. reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a wide variety of hospitality packages. As always. children 12 years and under will be admitted free with a ticketed adult, although they will need a Junior ticket to sit in the grandstands.

Fans can select and pay for their 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach can be followed on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).

Officials from the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, Auto Club of Southern California and Penske Entertainment today announced AAA Travel has signed a multiyear agreement to become an Official Sponsor of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, which includes entitlement of the Lifestyle Expo, the venerable event’s dynamic, fan-favorite showcase that fills the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center with interactive exhibits, travel inspiration, and hands-on experiences throughout race weekend.

The AAA Travel Lifestyle Expo will continue to showcase more than 100 exhibitors offering a diverse lineup of brands and experiences including automotive accessories, travel, home improvement, green power, wellness, tech, home and outdoor, along with the large Family Fun Zone in the Long Beach Arena.

“AAA has been part of the Southern California driving experience for more than a century, and their commitment to service, safety, and adventure makes them a perfect partner for our Lifestyle Expo,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “With AAA Travel’s involvement, fans will discover even more to see and do, whether they’re planning their next getaway or enjoying a full day of entertainment at the track.”

“We’re excited to dial up our presence at this iconic and beloved SoCal tradition, a natural extension of AAA Travel’s mission to inspire exploration and adventure,” said Erik Robinson, Chief Marketing Officer at AAA and proud Long Beach local. “Bringing AAA Travel to the Grand Prix gives us a chance to celebrate the thrill of discovery and connect with fans who share our passion for seeing the world.”

Admission to the AAA Travel Lifestyle Expo is included with all Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach tickets. The Expo is open Friday and Saturday, April 17 and 18 from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, April 19 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

In addition to the Expo, the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will feature three days and two nights of family-friendly entertainment, including world class racing from the NTT INDYCAR® SERIES and IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, as well as the Formula DRIFT Super Drift Challenge on Friday and Saturday nights and doubleheaders Saturday and Sunday from Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium SUPER Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup and the Historic Sports Car Challenge, featuring muscle cars that competed on road and street courses from the 1970s through 1991.

There will also be Friday and Saturday evening concerts, food trucks, exotic car displays, driver autograph sessions and a wide variety of activities for the whole family.

Ticket prices range from $56 for a Friday General Admission ticket to $221 for a three- day ticket that includes Sat./Sun. reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a wide variety of hospitality packages. As always. children 12 years and under will be admitted free with a ticketed adult, although they will need a Junior ticket to sit in the grandstands.

Fans can select and pay for their 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.

Fans can also follow the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).
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About AAA Travel: AAA Travel is a full-service travel agency offering personalized travel planning services and exclusive member benefits. AAA Travel is part of Auto Club Enterprises, the largest member of the AAA federation, serving nearly 18 million members through the Automobile Club of Southern California, AAA Alabama, AAA East Central, AAA Hawaii, AAA Missouri, AAA New Mexico, AAA Northern New England, AAA Texas and AAA Tidewater. Most often recognized for its industry-leading roadside assistance service, AAA also provides members with competitively priced auto, home and life insurance.  More than 65 million AAA members in the US and Canada have access to many additional benefits, including AAA Discounts & Rewards, AAA credit card, AAA Approved Auto Repair services, and more. AAA is also an active advocate for the motorist, conducting automotive testing and analysis, and supporting traffic safety initiatives to combat distracted driving, illegal street racing and impaired driving. For more information, please visit AAA.com.

Time to get a trackside seat to experience NO SPEED LIMITS on the downtown streets of Long Beach next April 17-19! Tickets for the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach are now on sale.

On Sunday, April 19, the fifth round of the NTT INDYCAR® SERIES will race with celebrated drivers such as defending race winner Kyle Kirkwood, past Long Beach winners Scott Dixon, Josef Newgarden and Will Power, along with back-to-back Series champion Alex Palou and young stars such as Pato O’Ward and 2025 Rookie of the Year Louis Foster expected to battle on the iconic 1.97-mile, 11-turn circuit through downtown Long Beach.

In addition, the Saturday, April 18 featured event will be the third round of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with its headlining GTP (GT Prototype) class, featuring hybrid prototypes from Acura, Aston Martin, BMW, Cadillac and Porsche. The GTP cars will be joined on track by the GTD (GT Daytona) class, making for an exciting and pass-filled race expected to have a field of at least 25 cars.

Fans will also see two nights of the Formula DRIFT Super Drift Challenge Friday and Saturday, as well as doubleheaders Saturday and Sunday from Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium SUPER Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup and a historic sports car race, featuring muscle cars that competed on road and street courses from the 1970s through 1991.

Off the track and free to all race attendees will be the popular Lifestyle Expo with more than 100 exhibitors offering the latest products and services in automotive, travel, home improvement, green power, fitness and recreation as well as the large Family Fun Zone in the Long Beach Arena. There will also be Friday and Saturday evening concerts, food trucks, exotic car displays, driver autograph sessions and a wide variety of activities for the whole family.

“The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will build on the momentum of our golden anniversary celebration with an elevated program across the board,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “We’ll have expanded fan activities, world-class wheel-to-wheel racing with full fields and our all-new double-decker Premium Pit Row Suites, which will give us an exciting new look on Shoreline Drive. The Acura Grand Prix has never stood still and 2026 will raise the bar again for thrills on-track and entertainment throughout the weekend.”

Ticket prices range from $56 for a Friday General Admission ticket to $221 for a three- day ticket that includes Sat./Sun. reserved seating in grandstand upper levels. Pre-paid parking packages are also available, along with handicapped seating, NTT INDYCAR SERIES Paddock passes, Super Photo tickets and a wide variety of hospitality packages. As always. children 12 years and under will be admitted free with a ticketed adult, although they will need a Junior ticket to sit in the grandstands.

Starting on Monday, fans can select and pay for their 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach seats, parking and paddock passes online at gplb.com. Ticket orders can also be placed by calling the toll-free ticket hotline, (888) 827-7333.

Fans can also follow the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X (@GPLongBeach #AGPLB), Instagram (@GPLongBeach) and TikTok (GPLongBeach).

Porsche Motorsport North America, International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) and Grand Prix Association of Long Beach officials announced today that the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will run two races of the 2026 Porsche Carrera Cup North America Championship during its April 17-19, 2026, race weekend.

The announcement marks the Long Beach return of one of the preeminent one-make racing series in the world, having raced here in 2022 and 2023. Two 40-minute races will be conducted, one on Saturday, April 18, and the other Sunday, April 19. Two Practices on Friday, April 17, and a Qualifying on Saturday morning will complete Porsche Carrera Cup North America’s second round of the season.

Porsche Carrera Cup, sanctioned by IMSA, showcases identical road car-based Porsche 911 Cup race cars, which places the emphasis on driver and team talent to win. Porsche Carrera Cup North America is one of only four Porsche One-Make Series that will introduce the brand new 911 Cup, based on the newest 992.2 generation of the 911, in its first season in 2026.

There are 12 Porsche Carrera Cup series on five continents, and it has become a career launching pad for drivers who have made it to the top ranks of international sports car competition such as Wolf Henzler, Patrick Long, Nick Tandy, Mathieu Jaminet, and Matt Campbell.

Porsche Carrera Cup North America just announced its 2026 schedule, featuring eight rounds at racetracks spanning North America.

“We’re excited to return to Long Beach in 2026. It is an important race to us as a hometown competition and was very popular with the teams competing in Carrera Cup North America,” Volker Holzmeyer, President and CEO, Porsche Motorsport North America, said. “The top street race and the premier single-make championship in North America are perfect matches, and we know we’ll entertain the Southern California fans and introduce them to the next generation of racing stars.”

“Welcoming Porsche Carrera Cup North America back to Long Beach is fantastic news for our fans and partners,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO Jim Michaelian. “The series brings world-class talent, iconic machinery, and wheel-to-wheel competition that perfectly complements the Acura Grand Prix weekend. We’re thrilled to showcase Porsche’s proven driver-development platform on our streets once again.”

In addition to Porsche Carrera Cup North America, the 2026 Acura Grand Prix will be headlined by the fifth round of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the third round of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The Formula Drift Super Drift Challenge invitational, Historic Trans Am Challenge and Robby Gordon’s Speed Energy Stadium Super Trucks will also run two races each during the weekend.

Tickets will go on sale to the public on November 10. For more information, visit gplb.com or call the Ticket Office at (888) 827-7333.

Fans can also follow the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X @GPLongBeach (#AGPLB), Instagram @GPLongBeach and TikTok (@GPLongBeach), as well as on the official Acura Grand Prix app, available on iTunes and Google Play.

Next April 17-19, Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach fans will experience the sights and sounds of the second generation of American muscle car power that defined the Golden Age of sports car racing from the 1970s through 1991, when the vintage machines take to the iconic racetrack in the Historic Sports Car Challenge doubleheader.

The twin 20-minute races will run Saturday and Sunday, April 18-19, with practice and qualifying on Friday, April 17.

The second generation of road racing muscle cars featured high-horsepower cars from marques like AMC, Audi, Chevrolet, Ford, Jaguar, Mercury, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Porsche and more with a list of well-known drivers that included Tommy Kendall, Scott Pruett, Robby Gordon, Wally Dallenbach Jr., Greg Pickett, David Hobbs and Lyn St. James, along with many others.

Among the cars expected in the field are Hobbs’ Chevrolet Camaro, as well the Ford Mustang driven by St. James and Gordon and the Mercury Capri driven by Dallenbach.

The historic event at Long Beach will be sanctioned by the Historic Motor Sports Association (HMSA).

“Bringing historic sports cars to Long Beach is a thrill for all of us at HMSA,” said Cris Vandagriff, President of HMSA. “These machines capture the raw, American V-8 spirit that helped define an era, and there’s no better stage than the Long Beach street circuit for fans to see, hear, and feel that history come alive. We’re proud to showcase the craftsmanship of the owners, the authenticity of the cars, and the enduring legacy of this type of racing during an exciting weekend.”

“Bringing these incredible cars to Long Beach adds a visceral new dimension to our weekend – the thunder of V-8 engines echoing off the waterfront and through our city streets is pure motorsport theater,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO Jim Michaelian. “It’s a tribute to the heritage that inspired a generation of fans and competitors, and we’re thrilled to partner with HMSA to bring this iconic chapter of racing back to Long Beach.”

In addition to the historic sports car doubleheader, the 2026 Acura Grand Prix will be headlined by the fifth round of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES and the third round of the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The Formula Drift Super Drift Challenge invitational and Robby Gordon’s SPEED Energy Stadium Super Trucks will also run races during the weekend, with one additional race to be announced.

Tickets will go on sale to the public on November 10. For more information, visit gplb.com or call the Ticket Office at (888) 827-7333.

Fans can also follow the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach on Facebook (GrandPrixLB), X @GPLongBeach (#AGPLB), Instagram @GPLongBeach and TikTok (@GPLongBeach), as well as on the official Acura Grand Prix app, available on iTunes and Google Play.

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The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach continues to prove to be a powerhouse event, delivering nearly $100 million in economic impact to the City of Long Beach and the broader Southern California region, a $35 million increase over the last study completed after the 2018 event. According to the study conducted by Kleinhenz Economics, the 2024 event generated impressive economic benefits over its three-day duration.

The key findings of the study include:
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Regional Economic Impact

Economic Output: The Grand Prix produced a total economic impact of $98.7 million across a seven-county region, stemming from $58 million in visitor and operational expenditures.

Job Creation: The event supported 702 jobs across various industries, with 523 direct jobs and 178 indirect or induced positions. These positions included sectors like food and beverage, hotels, retail, entertainment, and transportation.

Income Generation: The event generated $40.3 million in total income, with an average annualized wage of $57,400.

Tax Revenue: The Grand Prix contributed $17.9 million in tax revenues, including $8.3 million at the state and local levels.

City of Long Beach Economic Impact

Economic Output: Within the City of Long Beach, the event produced $58.7 million in economic activity.

Job Creation: The Grand Prix supported 525 local jobs with an average wage of $50,500.

Tax Revenue: The event brought in $8.9 million in local and state taxes, enhancing community resources and infrastructure.

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Beyond the Numbers

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is more than just a racing event. Its high visibility, with more than two million viewers across national and international media platforms, establishes Long Beach as a premier motorsport and tourism destination. The event fosters long-term business investment, infrastructure development, and economic vitality, leaving a legacy that extends well beyond its three-day schedule.

With more than 194,000 attendees in 2024 enjoying races, concerts, and other attractions, the Grand Prix continues to rev up the local and regional economies while delivering unforgettable experiences.

“The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is not just an exciting racing event—it’s also a dynamic economic engine for the City and the Southern California region,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “This year’s economic impact report highlights the substantial benefits the event delivers, from creating jobs to generating millions in revenue for local businesses and government. It’s a testament to the power of motorsports to bring people together while driving significant economic growth. We’re proud to play a pivotal role in enhancing Long Beach’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class entertainment and business investment.”

“Major events like the landmark Grand Prix of Long Beach create both excitement and economic opportunity for our city and region. From local businesses seeing a surge in customers to job creation and infrastructure investments, the impact extends far beyond the checkered flag,” said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson. “For Long Beach, this means more support for small businesses, increased tourism revenue, and a stronger local economy that supports city services that our residents depend on.”

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach remains a driving force behind Southern California’s economic growth and cultural appeal. As the 50th Anniversary event approaches this April 11-13, the focus remains on maintaining this iconic event’s reputation as both an entertainment spectacle and an economic catalyst. To read the full report, visit gplb.com/economic-impact-report.

Penske Entertainment announced today the newest member of its growing event portfolio, confirming the acquisition of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, LLC, from longtime owner Gerald R. Forsythe. The association administers the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the longest-running major street circuit race in North America. The purchase is expected to provide significant investment for the marquee NTT INDYCAR SERIES race, to further enhance this can’t-miss celebration of speed and Southern California motorsport culture for years to come.

This upcoming year marks the 50th edition of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, with special programming planned to mark the occasion. The race will return to network television, with FOX set to broadcast the event Sunday, April 13.

“We’re incredibly proud to be the new stewards of this cherished and iconic event,” said Roger Penske. “This is the most historic and prestigious street circuit race in North America, and we’re excited to work with Jim Michaelian and his great team in Long Beach to ensure continued success and growth over the long term. This race and its loyal fans matter so much to everyone across the INDYCAR community, and we’re looking forward to a very special 50th anniversary celebration this April, as well.”

“As we prepare to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone, the 50th anniversary of this amazing event, it’s fitting that we have such exciting and important news to share about its future,” said Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “Roger and the team at Penske Entertainment understand the special history and unique qualities that give us such a strong foundation and will be ideal partners as we continue to deliver an exceptional race weekend for our fans moving forward. I also want to acknowledge the significant contribution that the previous owners, Jerry Forsythe and the late Kevin Kalkhoven, made to the success of our event over the past 19 years.”

As an acclaimed and highly attended annual event located in the nation’s entertainment capital, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is a premier race weekend for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Working alongside the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach team, Penske Entertainment plans to invest in bolstering and enhancing the experience for race fans, sponsors and hospitality customers.

“This is a major race weekend, not just on our calendar but across the motorsport landscape,” Penske Entertainment President & CEO Mark Miles said. “We’re committed to preserving the core attributes that make it best in class while also working on some exciting and bold initiatives to make its future even bigger and brighter.”

The three-day weekend regularly attracts crowds of over 190,000 people to its 1.968-mile racecourse surrounding the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. The 2024 edition featured a supercharged atmosphere, which included the largest attendance in the modern INDYCAR era. The event brings global attention and positive economic impact to its home city, while also maintaining a charitable organization – the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach – which has donated more than $4.2 million to those in need within the Long Beach community.

“The Grand Prix is an incredibly vital and vibrant asset for our community and an annual event that drives commerce, attracts tourism and elevates cultural connectivity across our city,” said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson. “Penske Entertainment will be a committed and energetic partner for the future that seeks to preserve and enhance this event’s rich history and strong legacy. We’re looking forward to a great working relationship that benefits everyone who calls Long Beach home.”

As part of today’s announcement, Penske Entertainment and the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach released a special video, narrated by former Indy 500 Honorary Starter and acclaimed actor Milo Ventimiglia. You can watch it here.

Today’s news marks the continuation of an ambitious and productive period for Penske Entertainment, which owns and manages INDYCAR and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. In September, the organization announced the establishment of the first charter system in INDYCAR’s history, providing NTT INDYCAR SERIES owners meaningful and enhanced value across their entries. In October, Penske Entertainment unveiled the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington, powered through a first-of-its-kind joint venture with the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers.

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is North America’s premier open-wheel racing series, featuring an international field of the world's most versatile drivers who compete on superspeedways, short ovals, street circuits and permanent road courses across the United States and Canada. Beginning in 2025, FOX Sports will be the exclusive home of all INDYCAR action, providing a network broadcast via FOX of all 17 NTT INDYCAR SERIES races. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is the only premier motorsport series in the U.S. to broadcast every race on network television.