As spring arrives in Southern California, the roar of engines once again echoes through the streets of Long Beach. The 2025 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach marks another chapter in one of motorsport’s most storied events, continuing its legacy as North America’s premier street circuit race.
A Tradition of Excellence
Since its inception in 1975, the Long Beach Grand Prix has evolved from a Formula 5000 race to becoming IndyCar’s signature street event. Now in its 48th running, the 1.968-mile temporary circuit weaving through downtown Long Beach continues to challenge drivers with its unique combination of high-speed straights, technical corners, and the famous hairpin leading onto Shoreline Drive.
“Long Beach is special because it combines everything that makes street racing exciting,” says defending IndyCar champion Alex Palou. “You’ve got concrete walls everywhere, zero margin for error, and some of the most passionate fans in motorsport just feet away from the action.”
What to Watch in 2025
This year’s event features several compelling storylines:
- New Track Modifications: After feedback from drivers, turn 6 has been reconfigured to improve overtaking opportunities, while the famous fountain complex received subtle adjustments to enhance safety while maintaining its challenging character.
- Next-Gen Technology: The 2025 race showcases IndyCar’s continued evolution with enhanced hybrid power units now in their second full season of competition, delivering more power and improved energy recovery around the punishing street circuit.
- International Flavor: The grid features drivers from twelve nations, including rising stars from Europe and South America who’ve chosen IndyCar over Formula 1, attracted by its competitive balance and challenging variety of circuits.
More Than Just Racing
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach remains far more than just a race – it’s a festival encompassing multiple forms of motorsport and entertainment. The weekend features IndyCar as the headliner, supported by IMSA sports car racing, Formula Drift demonstrations, Super Stadium Trucks, and a historic racing exhibition.
Beyond the track action, the event transforms downtown Long Beach into a celebration of car culture with manufacturer displays, autograph sessions, concerts, and the popular Lifestyle Expo filling the convention center. Local restaurants and businesses eagerly await the annual influx of approximately 180,000 attendees over the three-day weekend.
Economic Impact
City officials estimate the event generates more than $63 million in economic impact for the Long Beach area, with hotels booked to capacity and restaurants experiencing their busiest weekend of the year.
“Long Beach and IndyCar have a symbiotic relationship,” explains Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President Jim Michaelian. “This event has become a cornerstone of our city’s identity while providing IndyCar with its most recognizable street racing spectacle.”
A Legacy Continues
What started as an ambitious attempt to bring Formula 1 to the streets of Long Beach (which it successfully did from 1976-1983) has evolved into America’s most successful street race. While Monaco might claim the crown globally, Long Beach stands as North America’s answer – a challenging circuit that rewards precision driving while providing spectacular viewing for fans.
As cars take the green flag this April, they’ll continue a tradition that has become as much a part of Southern California culture as palm trees and ocean views – proving once again why the Long Beach Grand Prix remains the crown jewel of American street racing nearly five decades after its inception.
