What Is 2025 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach

Overview

The 2025 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is a premier event on the NTT IndyCar Series calendar, marking the 50th anniversary of one of the most iconic street races in American motorsports. Held on the temporary circuit winding through downtown Long Beach, California, the race draws top drivers, teams, and hundreds of thousands of fans each year.

As the third round of the 2025 IndyCar season, the event features high-speed action on a challenging 1.968-mile, 11-turn layout that combines tight corners with long straights. The race weekend also includes support series events from IMSA and other motorsport categories, amplifying its status as a major West Coast motorsports festival.

• April 20, 2025: The main IndyCar race is scheduled for Sunday, April 20, following practice and qualifying sessions from April 18–19.
• 1.968-mile circuit: The temporary street track spans public roads near the Long Beach Convention Center and Shoreline Drive, featuring elevation changes and tight chicanes.
• 50th anniversary: The 2025 race commemorates five decades since the first Long Beach Grand Prix, which began as a Formula 5000 event in 1975.
• Acura title sponsorship: Acura has served as the title sponsor since 2018, aligning the luxury automaker with high-performance racing and brand visibility.
• IndyCar Series centerpiece: The event is one of the most anticipated races of the season, often influencing championship standings due to its mid-season timing.

How It Works

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach operates as a multi-day motorsports event centered on the NTT IndyCar Series, combining on-track competition with fan engagement and automotive showcases.

• IndyCar Qualifying Format: The top 12 drivers advance to a Firestone Fast Six shootout; pole position is awarded based on single-lap speed in the final round.
• Race Distance: The 2025 race will cover 85 laps, totaling approximately 167.28 miles, making it one of the longer street circuit events on the calendar.
• Street Circuit Logistics: Temporary barriers, grandstands, and pit facilities are installed weeks in advance, transforming city streets into a world-class racing venue.
• IMSA Support Races: The WeatherTech SportsCar Championship runs the Long Beach 100, featuring LMP2 and GTD classes, adding depth to the weekend’s racing lineup.
• Driver Safety Protocols: The FIA-grade circuit includes TecPro barriers, runoff zones, and a fully equipped medical center to ensure driver safety at high speeds.
• Fan Experience: Attendees can access paddock tours, driver meet-and-greets, and interactive exhibits, enhancing engagement beyond the race itself.

Comparison at a Glance

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach stands out among IndyCar events; here's how it compares to other major street and oval races:

While shorter than the Indianapolis 500 in distance, the Long Beach race demands intense concentration due to its narrow layout and frequent elevation changes. Its urban setting and anniversary milestone elevate its cultural significance beyond pure competition.

Why It Matters

The 2025 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is more than a race—it's a celebration of motorsports heritage, innovation, and community engagement in Southern California.

• Historic Legacy: The event traces its roots to 1975, evolving from Formula 5000 to Champ Car and now IndyCar, maintaining continuity for five decades.
• Economic Impact: The race generates an estimated $70 million in annual economic activity for Long Beach, supporting local businesses and tourism.
• Automotive Innovation: Acura uses the platform to showcase performance technology, including hybrid powertrains and advanced aerodynamics.
• Global Audience: Broadcast in over 150 countries, the race amplifies U.S. motorsports visibility on the international stage.
• Youth Engagement: STEM-focused outreach programs connect students with engineering careers through motorsports partnerships.
• Sustainability Efforts: The event incorporates recycling initiatives, EV shuttle services, and carbon offset programs to reduce environmental impact.

With its blend of history, competition, and cultural relevance, the 2025 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach remains a cornerstone of American open-wheel racing.