2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach: A Weekend of Racing and Tribute

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, taking place from April 17 to April 19, marks the fifth round of the IndyCar Series and features a diverse lineup of motorsport events, including the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the Porsche Carrera Cup North America. The event is expected to attract nearly 200,000 spectators, solidifying its status as one of the most prestigious races outside the Indianapolis 500.

NBC Los AngelesIndianapolis StarHow to watch IndyCar 2026 at Long Beach: Weekend schedule, start time, TVIndyCar Preview: Grand Prix of Long Beach

The IndyCar race is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, with the green flag set to drop at 5:57 PM EST. The weekend's schedule includes practice sessions on Friday and Saturday, followed by qualifying on Saturday evening. The race will be held on a 1.97-mile street circuit characterized by 11 turns, where cars can reach speeds up to 180 mph.

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Kyle Kirkwood enters the race as the defending champion and current points leader, holding a narrow two-point advantage over Alex Palou. Both drivers have shown strong performances this season, with Palou recently securing a victory at the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix. Kirkwood's consistent top-five finishes have positioned him as a favorite for the Long Beach race, where he has historically performed well.

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This year's event carries a poignant significance as it honors Jim Michaelian, the former president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, who passed away in March 2026. Michaelian was instrumental in establishing the Long Beach Grand Prix as a premier motorsport event. A tribute sticker will be placed on all cars participating in the race, reflecting the deep respect and admiration from the racing community.

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Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President of Porsche Motorsport, expressed pride in the collaboration with Apple Music for the event, highlighting the significance of the Long Beach race in the motorsport calendar. Additionally, drivers and team members have shared their sentiments regarding Michaelian's legacy, emphasizing his contributions to the sport and the community.

Porsche 963 takes Apple Music’s colors to Long Beach

While the event is celebrated, some critics have raised concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale motorsport events. However, the organizers have implemented measures to mitigate these effects, including the use of renewable fuels in the IndyCar series.

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Following the Grand Prix of Long Beach, the IndyCar Series will continue with races at Phoenix International Raceway and Arlington, Texas, as part of the 2026 season. The outcomes of these races will further shape the championship standings as drivers aim for the prestigious Indianapolis 500.

Indianapolis StarNBC Los AngelesLong Beach Press-TelegramHow INDYCAR drivers navigate the Grand Prix of Long Beach's unique 11-turn track

The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach promises to be a thrilling weekend of racing, filled with competitive spirit and a heartfelt tribute to a beloved figure in motorsport.

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