Key Takeaways
- Jim Michaelian, the president and CEO of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, is transitioning to a new role at Penske Entertainment.
- Michaelian has been involved with the event since its inception in 1975 and has led it since 2001.
- The Grand Prix of Long Beach is North America’s longest-running major street race and recently set an attendance record with over 200,000 fans.
- Jim Liaw will succeed Michaelian as the new president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, effective July 1.
- Liaw has a background in motorsports, having co-founded Formula Drift and serving as the general manager for Performance Racing Industry.
Introduction to Jim Michaelian’s Transition
Jim Michaelian, the long-time president and CEO of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, is transitioning to a new role at Penske Entertainment, effective June 30. Michaelian has been involved with the event since its inception in 1975 and has led it since 2001. The Grand Prix of Long Beach is North America’s longest-running major street race, and Michaelian has been instrumental in its success. The event recently set an attendance record with over 200,000 fans across the three-day weekend, making it one of the most popular events on the IndyCar calendar.
The Legacy of Jim Michaelian
Michaelian’s legacy in the motorsports industry is undeniable. He has been involved with the Grand Prix of Long Beach for over 45 years and has led the event to unprecedented success. Under his leadership, the event has become a staple of the IndyCar calendar, attracting fans from all over the world. Michaelian’s passion for motorsports is evident in his work, and he has been praised by industry leaders for his dedication and expertise. Mark Miles, President and CEO of Penske Entertainment Corp., praised Michaelian’s leadership, saying, "IndyCar owes an immense debt of gratitude to Jim Michaelian. From Day 1, his guidance, management, and exemplary leadership have made the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach a marquee event and a beloved fan-favorite on the NTT IndyCar Series calendar."
The Future of the Grand Prix of Long Beach
As Michaelian transitions to his new role, Jim Liaw will succeed him as the new president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, effective July 1. Liaw has a background in motorsports, having co-founded Formula Drift and serving as the general manager for Performance Racing Industry. Liaw is excited to take on the challenge, saying, "I’m honored to join the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach and to help lead one of the most recognized and respected events in motorsports. The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is incredibly meaningful to me – it was the first major race I ever attended nearly 30 years ago, and it helped spark a lifelong connection to motorsports." Liaw’s experience and passion for motorsports make him an ideal fit to lead the Grand Prix of Long Beach into its next chapter.
The Impact of Michaelian’s Transition
Michaelian’s transition to a new role at Penske Entertainment is a significant change for the Grand Prix of Long Beach. However, Michaelian is confident that the event is in good hands with Liaw at the helm. Michaelian said, "Leading the Grand Prix Association and the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach has been the privilege of a lifetime. This event and this community mean a great deal to me, and I’m proud of what our team has built together. Coming off our very successful 50th celebration, I feel this is the right time to make this transition." Michaelian’s transition is a testament to the event’s stability and success, and fans can expect the Grand Prix of Long Beach to continue to thrive under Liaw’s leadership.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jim Michaelian’s transition to a new role at Penske Entertainment marks the end of an era for the Grand Prix of Long Beach. However, with Jim Liaw taking over as the new president and CEO, the event is poised for continued success. The Grand Prix of Long Beach remains one of the most popular events on the IndyCar calendar, and its legacy is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Michaelian and his team. As the event looks to the future, fans can expect exciting changes and continued growth, cementing the Grand Prix of Long Beach as a staple of the motorsports industry.
