LONG BEACH, CA — The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach has announced its longtime president and CEO will step down from his position this summer.
Jim Michaelian, 82, will transition from his position to assume a new role in Penske Entertainment effective June 30, association officials said Thursday.
“Coming off our very successful 50th celebration, I feel this is the right time to make this transition,” Michaelian said in a written statement. “For 50 years, I have been given the unique opportunity to merge my passion for motorsports with involvement with the longest-running street race in America, which has been a distinct privilege.”
After stepping down, Michaelian will join Penske Entertainment, which purchased the race series from owner Gerald Forsythe two years ago, The Long Beach Post reported.
“Penske Entertainment is contracted to run the Long Beach race through at least 2028,” the outlet reported.
Jim Liaw has been named as Michaelian’s replacement and will assume the position starting July 1, officials said.
Since its founding in 1975, Michaelian has been a part of the Grand Prix Association, serving as controller and chief operating officer before being named president and CEO in December 2001, according to officials.
“He has served on the boards of the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, Visit Long Beach and the Los Angeles Sports Council over the years,” officials said.
Michaelian is also a competitive sports car racer and, for more than two decades, “has competed at such tracks as LeMans, Daytona, Nürburgring, and Sebring,” according to officials.
Michaelian still “hopes to be able to participate in a few more events before hanging up his helmet,” officicals sad.
Michaelian will continue to serve as president and CEO through this year’s Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend, working with Liaw to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
During that time, Liaw will take on the temporary role of general manager, officials said.
Liaw has “extensive motorsports industry experience and leadership from his position as General Manager of Performance Racing Industry, an organization that supports and advocates for the interests of racers, enthusiasts, builders, tracks, sanctioning bodies, and businesses,” according to officials.
For Liaw, he said, the event is “incredibly meaningful.”
“It was the first major race I ever attended nearly 30 years ago, and it helped spark a lifelong connection to motorsports,” Liaw said. “Southern California has been home since I was six, so it’s truly an honor to represent Long Beach and the region while leading such a special event. I’m excited to be part of this iconic race and to help shape its future for generations to come.”
The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will take place from April 17 to 19.