By Ethan Cohen
LONG BEACH— The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach marked its 50th anniversary April 11–13, celebrating half a century since its inaugural 1975 Formula 5000 race in a city once seeking identity through motorsport prestige. Promoter Chris Pook’s vision transformed a depressed port city into North America’s premier street-racing destination, with the first race drawing 65,000 fans and handing victory to Brian Redman.
Through its storied history, the event hosted Formula One from 1976 to 1983 before transitioning to CART and later, the IndyCar Series in 1984. Iconic drivers such as Mario Andretti, Niki Lauda and Al Unser Jr.—who won a record seven times— solidified Long Beach’s reputation for championship pedigree.
In 2024, an attendance record neared 194,000 spectators, underscoring the race’s cultural importance to the region. This year, Roger Penske’s acquisition of the event ensured it remains part of the IndyCar series through at least 2028, with FOX broadcasting the milestone race on April 13.
The weekend featured demonstrations of historic Formula 5000, F1 and Indy cars, vintage exhibitions, Drift challenges, Stadium Super Trucks, GT America and family amenities— tracing Long Beach’s evolution from seaside backwater to world-class motorsport festival.
