Penske Leisure has introduced the acquisition of the Grand Prix Affiliation of Lengthy Seaside — acquired from longtime proprietor Gerald R. Forsythe. The historic Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside, the longest working avenue race based mostly in Southern California, now joins the likes of the IndyCar Collection, Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Detroit Grand Prix as a part of the portfolio of manufacturers beneath Penske Leisure, a subsidiary of Penske Company.
Subsequent 12 months will mark the fiftieth version of the historic occasion, with particular programming deliberate to mark the event. The race will return to community tv, with FOX set to broadcast the occasion Sunday, April 13.
“We’re extremely proud to be the brand new stewards of this cherished and iconic occasion,” stated Roger Penske.
“That is probably the most historic and prestigious avenue circuit race in North America, and we’re excited to work with (Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside CEO) Jim Michaelian and his nice workforce in Lengthy Seaside to make sure continued success and progress over the long run. This race and its loyal followers matter a lot to everybody throughout the IndyCar neighborhood, and we’re trying ahead to a really particular fiftieth anniversary celebration this April, as nicely.”
Michaelian prolonged his ideas on the importance of Penske taking up the occasion.
“As we put together to have fun a very exceptional milestone, the fiftieth anniversary of this wonderful occasion, it’s becoming that we’ve such thrilling and essential information to share about its future,” stated Michaelian.
“Roger and the workforce at Penske Leisure perceive the particular historical past and distinctive qualities that give us such a robust basis and will likely be perfect companions as we proceed to ship an distinctive race weekend for our followers shifting ahead. I additionally wish to acknowledge the numerous contribution that the earlier homeowners, Jerry Forsythe and the late Kevin Kalkhoven, made to the success of our occasion over the previous 19 years.”
In response to the press launch, Penske Leisure “plans to spend money on bolstering and enhancing the expertise for race followers, sponsors and hospitality prospects.” It’s already closely concerned within the promotions at varied IndyCar occasions held at Iowa Speedway, the Milwaukee Mile and the Grand Prix of Arlington set for 2026
“It is a main race weekend, not simply on our calendar however throughout the motorsport panorama,” Penske Leisure President & CEO Mark Miles stated. “We’re dedicated to preserving the core attributes that make it greatest in school whereas additionally engaged on some thrilling and daring initiatives to make its future even larger and brighter.”
The 1.968-mile circuit, which wraps across the Lengthy Seaside Conference and Leisure Heart, sometimes hosts crowds over 190,000 individuals throughout its three-day weekend. Moreover, the Grand Prix Basis of Lengthy Seaside, a charity group, has donated greater than $4.2 million to these in want inside the Lengthy Seaside neighborhood.
“The Grand Prix is an extremely important and vibrant asset for our neighborhood and an annual occasion that drives commerce, attracts tourism and elevates cultural connectivity throughout our metropolis,” stated Lengthy Seaside Mayor Rex Richardson.
“Penske Leisure will likely be a dedicated and energetic accomplice for the long run that seeks to protect and improve this occasion’s wealthy historical past and powerful legacy. We’re trying ahead to an awesome working relationship that advantages everybody who calls Lengthy Seaside dwelling.”
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