By: Spencer Neff
November 14, 2024

On Thursday morning, Penske Entertainment announced their acquisition of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach.

The organization, which promoted the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach in California, was previously owned by a group that included former car owner Gerald R. Forsythe.

“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 (Grand Prix Association president) 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.”

The event has been run o n the California street course since 1975, with INDYCAR being a part of the event since 1984.

“As we prepare to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone, the 50th anniversary of this amazingevent, it’s fitting that we have such exciting and important news to share about its future,” saidAcura 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 thatthe previous owners, Jerry Forsythe and the late Kevin Kalkhoven, made to the success of ourevent over the past 19 years.”

Penske Entertainment also owns the IndyCar Series, as well as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, host of the Sonsio Grand Prix (Road Course) and the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainnbridge.

“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 thecore attributes that make it best in class while also working on some exciting and bold initiativesto make its future even bigger and brighter.”

In 2026, Penske Entertainment will also debut a new street course race in Arlington, Texas as part of a joint venture with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and MLB’s Texas Rangers.

“The Grand Prix is an incredibly vital and vibrant asset for our community and an annual eventthat drives commerce, attracts tourism and elevates cultural connectivity across our city,” said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson.

“Penske Entertainment will be a committed and energeticpartner for the future that seeks to preserve and enhance this event’s rich history and stronglegacy. We’re looking forward to a great working relationship that benefits everyone who callsLong Beach home.”

The 2025 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is set for April 11-13 of 2025, with the 85-lap INDYCAR event on the 1.968-mile temporary street course set for April 13.

Header Image By INDYCAR