Sports
Penske Entertainment Acquires Long Beach Grand Prix Association
Penske Entertainment takes charge of the longest-running major street circuit race in North America ahead of its 50th anniversary.

LONG BEACH, CA — Penske Entertainment Thursday announced its acquisition of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach from longtime owner Gerald Forsythe ahead of the race's 50th anniversary.
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 NTT INDYCAR SERIES race.
With the Grand Prix of Long Beach celebrating its 50th anniversary this April, special programming and celebrations are planned to mark the occasion. FOX is set to broadcast the event on Sunday, April 13.
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“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.”
Working alongside the Long Beach Grand Prix team, Penske said it plans to elevate the experience for race fans, sponsors and hospitality customers.
Find out what's happening in Long Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The three-day weekend draws crowds of over 190,000 people to Downtown Long Beach and the 1.968-mile racecourse. In 2024, the event boasted the largest attendance in the modern INDYCAR era.
Long Beach's Grand Prix brings global attention and positive economic impact to the city and helps raise money for the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, which has donated $4.2 million to those in need.
“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 acclaimed actor and former Indy 500 Honorary Starter Milo Ventimiglia.
To book tickets to the 2025 event on April 11-13, visit the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach website.
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