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Jim Michaelian, Long Beach Grand Prix Founder, Dies at 83
Michaelian helped transform the annual race into one of the most popular street racing events in the world.
Mar. 22, 2026 at 4:24pm
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Jim Michaelian, one of the founders of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach and its longtime president, has died at the age of 83. Michaelian joined the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach in 1975 and grew the event into a major motorsports festival that draws thousands of race fans and generates tens of millions in economic activity for the city.
Why it matters
Michaelian's vision and leadership were instrumental in establishing the Long Beach Grand Prix as a premier racing event and a beloved community tradition. His passing marks the end of an era for the iconic street race, which has been a fixture in Southern California for over 50 years.
The details
Michaelian, a competitive sports car racer for over 25 years, joined the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach in 1975 when the event was still a fledgling race. Under his leadership as president and CEO, Michaelian transformed the Grand Prix into one of the most popular street racing events in the world, featuring IndyCar, sports car, and truck races as well as a variety of concerts, expos, and other fan activities.
- Michaelian joined the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach in 1975.
- Michaelian was appointed president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association in 2001.
- Michaelian was still racing sports cars at the age of 76 in 2019.
- Michaelian was inducted into the Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame last year.
- This year's Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is scheduled for April 17-19, 2026.
The players
Jim Michaelian
One of the founders of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach and its longtime president, who helped grow the event into a major motorsports festival.
Roger Penske
Chairman of Penske Corporation, which acquired the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach in 2024.
John Doonan
President of the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA).
What they’re saying
“Jim was a leader of a small, passionate group who believed in the concept of bringing elite open-wheel competition to Long Beach in the 1970s. His vision and energy surrounding this great event remained boundless for 50 years.”
— Roger Penske, Penske Corporation Chairman
“Jim was a racer's racer and a dear friend to IMSA and the motorsports community at large. We will sorely miss his presence at Long Beach and racetracks everywhere.”
— John Doonan, IMSA President
What’s next
The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is scheduled to take place on April 17-19, marking the first edition of the event since the passing of its longtime leader, Jim Michaelian.
The takeaway
Michaelian's unwavering dedication and vision transformed the Long Beach Grand Prix from a fledgling race into one of the most iconic and beloved motorsports festivals in the world, cementing its status as a must-attend event for racing enthusiasts and the broader community.
