Penske Entertainment Acquires Long Beach Grand Prix
Summary
Penske Entertainment has officially acquired the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach from Gerald R. Forsythe, securing the administration of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, which is recognized as North America’s longest-running major street circuit race. This landmark acquisition, announced on November 14, 2024, positions the event to thrive as it approaches its 50th anniversary in April 2025. Both Penske and Grand Prix officials expressed enthusiasm for enhancing the event while honoring its storied history, highlighting plans for special programming and a return to network television coverage on FOX.
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach typically draws over 190,000 attendees, making it a significant cultural and economic event for the local community. Roger Penske, the figurehead behind this acquisition, emphasized his commitment to preserving the event's legacy while focusing on future growth opportunities. The contract guarantees its continuation within the NTT IndyCar Series until at least 2028, ensuring that the iconic race will remain a staple in the IndyCar calendar. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming anniversary edition, excitement is building for what the Penske team will bring to this historic event.