Everything You Should Know About the 2026 Grand Prix of Long Beach
2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach Set for April 17-19
The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is poised to deliver an exhilarating weekend of motorsports, featuring six different racing types across three action-packed days. The event is scheduled for April 17-19, with the highlights including the IMSA sports car race on Saturday and the prominent IndyCar Series race on Sunday.
Kicking off the weekend, racing enthusiasts can look forward to a variety of events, including participation from IndyCar, IMSA, Stadium Super Trucks, Porsche Carrera Cup, and drift racing. The main IndyCar Series race is scheduled for Sunday at 2:45 p.m., while the IMSA sports car race will take the track on Saturday at 1 p.m.
"We have an exciting lineup this year," said a representative from the organizing committee. "The diversity of racing formats promises to engage fans throughout the entire weekend."
Racing Series Overview
This year’s Grand Prix includes six distinct categories:
NTT IndyCar Series: Featuring high-performance open-wheel race cars that have graced Long Beach for decades.
IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship: Comprised of both prototype and production-based race cars, showcasing competitive multi-class racing.
Stadium Super Trucks: These modified trucks will provide thrilling jumps and stunts as they race down Shoreline Drive.
Porsche Carrera Cup: A single-manufacturer series spotlighting Porsche 911 cars, recognized as a stepping stone for emerging drivers.
Super Drift Challenge: A showcase of drifting skills as vehicles maneuver through corners in controlled slides.
Historic Sports Cars: Exhibition races featuring cars that date back to the 1970s and 1990s from brands including AMC, Chevrolet, and Porsche.
Schedule of Events
The event begins with an array of qualifications and races on the 11-turn street course. Key race times include:
Friday:
- 4:40 p.m. – 5:10 p.m.: Porsche Carrera Cup qualifying
- 5:25 p.m. – 6 p.m.: IMSA qualifying
- 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Super Drift Challenge No. 1
Saturday:
- 8:30 a.m. – 8:50 a.m.: Historic Sports Car Challenge Race 1
- 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.: IMSA SportsCar Grand Prix
- 5:15 p.m. – 5:45 p.m.: Stadium Super Trucks Race 1
- 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.: Super Drift Challenge No. 1
Sunday:
- 2:45 p.m. – 5 p.m.: Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, IndyCar race
Ticket Information
General admission tickets range from $58 for Friday to $151 for the entire weekend. Reserved seating options are available, priced between $165 and $228 for adults.
About the Circuit
The Long Beach street course spans 1.968 miles and includes 11 turns, providing drivers with opportunities to accelerate up to approximately 185 mph. The circuit features significant overtaking zones, particularly at Turn 1, where race dynamics can shift dramatically.
Accessing the Event
Attendees have multiple transportation options, including:
Metro: The Metro A (Blue) Line stops nearby the event entrance.
Ride-share: Designated drop-off points are available on First Street between Elm and Long Beach Boulevard.
Parking: Reserved parking is limited and requires special passes.
For detailed information on getting to the Grand Prix, refer to the event’s official resources.
Viewing the Races
The IndyCar Series race will air on FOX on Sunday, April 19, at 2:30 p.m. The IMSA SportsCar Grand Prix can be watched on NBC on Saturday, April 18, at 1 p.m. Both events will also feature additional coverage for practice and qualifying sessions.
