The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach announced today that it has reached a multi-year agreement with Acura to become title sponsor of the Grand Prix of Long Beach.
The luxury automaker replaces Toyota, which had sponsored the iconic street race for the last 35 years.
Set for April 12-14, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will again be headlined by the NTT IndyCar Series, but also feature the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and Pirelli GT4 America Sprint.
“With our U.S. headquarters nearby in Torrance, this is a true ‘home’ event for the Acura brand,” said Jon Ikeda, Acura vice president and general manager.
“The Grand Prix of Long Beach is one of North America’s premier motorsports events, and an institution in Southern California.
“Acura is delighted and proud to be associated with the Grand Prix of Long Beach, and we look forward to a long and successful partnership.”
Jim Michaelian, president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, said Honda’s new partnership marks the start of a “new era” for the event.
“As we enter our 45th year of conducting America’s #1 street race, we are looking forward with great enthusiasm to this new partnership with a premium luxury brand like Acura.
Together we will explore new ways to elevate the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach to greater heights in the coming years.”