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Jim Michaelian, the longtime president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, passed away on March 21 at the age of 83. Michaelian was one of the founding staff members of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach and helped transform the event into one of the premier street races in the world over his 50-year tenure.
Why it matters
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is one of the most iconic motorsports events in the United States, drawing huge crowds and top-level racing talent each year. Michaelian’s leadership and vision were instrumental in growing the event into the success it is today, cementing Long Beach’s place as a premier destination for motorsports fans.
The details
Michaelian served in various roles with the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, including controller, chief operating officer, and eventually president and CEO starting in 2001. Under his leadership, the event blended top-level open-wheel racing with major entertainment, civic, and business impact for the City of Long Beach. Michaelian was also an accomplished sports car racer himself, competing in endurance events at tracks like Le Mans, Daytona, and Sebring for over 25 years.
The first Long Beach Grand Prix was held in 1975.Michaelian served as the Grand Prix Association’s president and CEO starting in December 2001.Michaelian passed away on March 21, 2026 at the age of 83.
The players
Jim Michaelian
The longtime president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach who helped transform the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach into one of the premier street races in the world over his 50-year tenure.
Roger Penske
A racing legend who praised Michaelian’s vision and energy in making the Long Beach Grand Prix a success.
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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, worked tirelessly to make it happen despite steep odds, and then helped nurture the Grand Prix of Long Beach into becoming America’s premier street race. His vision and energy surrounding this great event remained boundless for 50 years.”
— Roger Penske
What’s next
No services have been announced yet for Jim Michaelian.
The takeaway
Michaelian’s decades-long leadership and passion for motorsports were instrumental in transforming the Long Beach Grand Prix into one of the most prestigious and successful street races in the world, cementing Long Beach’s place as a premier destination for racing fans.