Roger Penske, the legendary figure in motorsports, has added another jewel to his crown with the acquisition of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The three-day race weekend, which regularly draws crowds of 200,000, is the most prestigious and longest-running street course race in North America, and its 50th edition is set to be a milestone event in auto racing history.
Unlocking the Future of an Iconic Motorsports Destination
Penske's Motorsports Legacy Extends to Southern California
Roger Penske's fingerprints are all over the motorsports landscape in Southern California, and his latest venture will be overseeing the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach in April. Penske Entertainment's acquisition of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach from Gerald R. Forsythe ensures that the IndyCar Series will remain a fixture in the city for years to come. Penske's deep roots in the region, including his ownership of the Ontario Motor Speedway in the 1970s and his instrumental role in constructing and developing California Speedway in Fontana, demonstrate his unwavering commitment to the sport and its growth in the area.Celebrating a Milestone in Motorsports History
The 50th running of the Grand Prix of Long Beach is a momentous occasion, and Penske is determined to make it a truly special celebration. As the new stewards of this cherished and iconic event, Penske and his team are poised to elevate the experience for both the loyal fans and the entire IndyCar community. The three-day race weekend has long been a fixture on the motorsports calendar, drawing massive crowds to the 1.968-mile course that surrounds the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center.Ensuring the Future of an Iconic Race
With Penske's acquisition, the Grand Prix of Long Beach is set to continue its legacy as a premier event on the IndyCar Series calendar. The Grand Prix Association has an agreement with the city of Long Beach to host the race until 2028, and Penske has expressed his commitment to maintaining the event's status as a cherished and iconic destination for motorsports enthusiasts. As the new owner, Penske brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the industry, ensuring that the Grand Prix of Long Beach will remain a must-see event for years to come.Expanding the Horizons of the IndyCar Series
Penske's acquisition of the Grand Prix of Long Beach is not just about preserving the event's legacy; it's also about driving the growth and development of the IndyCar Series as a whole. With plans to welcome Fox Sports as a new broadcast partner, explore the possibility of adding events, and potentially expand the 17-race schedule, Penske is positioning the series for a bright future. The celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Grand Prix of Long Beach is seen as a pivotal moment to propel the series to new heights, much like the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 was for the Indy 500.Penske's Motorsports Dominance Continues
Roger Penske's success in the world of motorsports is unparalleled, and his acquisition of the Grand Prix of Long Beach only further solidifies his position as a titan in the industry. With 17 IndyCar Series championships and five NASCAR championships under his belt, Penske's teams have consistently proven their dominance on the track. The addition of the Grand Prix of Long Beach to his portfolio, which includes the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500, cements Penske's status as one of the most influential figures in the sport, with a legacy that will continue to shape the future of motorsports for years to come.