The upcoming 50th edition of the Long Beach Grand Prix, scheduled for April 11-13, promises to be a thrilling spectacle combining modern racing excellence with a nod to its storied past. This prestigious event will feature an array of motorsport categories, including the NTT IndyCar Series, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Stadium SUPER Trucks, GT America, Super Drift Challenge, and a historic exhibition of iconic Formula cars. Fans can anticipate high-speed action on the 1.968-mile street circuit, showcasing cutting-edge race vehicles and legendary machines that have graced this track over the decades.
Central to the weekend's excitement is the NTT IndyCar Series, where open-wheel racers will push their limits in front of Shoreline Drive's grandstands, reaching speeds upwards of 185 mph. The series' Sunday feature race builds upon decades of tradition at Long Beach. Meanwhile, Saturday afternoon brings the IMSA SportsCar Grand Prix, featuring both prototype and production-based sports cars in a tense battle lasting just 100 minutes. Beyond these headline events, fans will also enjoy Stadium SUPER Trucks leaping through ramps, GT America's precision racing, and the tire-smoking antics of the Super Drift Challenge.
In addition to contemporary competition, the historic exhibition pays homage to three eras of open-wheel racing—Formula 5000, Formula 1, and INDYCAR—with some of the most celebrated machines returning to the streets of Long Beach. Among them are Mario Andretti's 1977 John Player Lotus and Sebastien Bourdais' victorious 2005 Lola-Ford. These vintage racers will provide spectators with a unique opportunity to witness history come alive on the very course where they once competed fiercely.
The layout of the Long Beach street circuit itself adds another layer of intrigue. Drivers face challenging turns while navigating the short but technical 11-corner track. Highlights include the fast stretch along Shoreline Drive, the dolphin fountain section, and the hairpin Turn 11, each offering distinct viewing experiences for fans eager to soak in every moment of the action-packed weekend.
This milestone anniversary not only celebrates the evolution of motorsport but also reinforces Long Beach’s status as a global hub for automotive passion and innovation. As drivers rev their engines and historic vehicles roar back to life, the 50th Grand Prix of Long Beach sets the stage for unforgettable memories crafted by speed, skill, and nostalgia.