The Verizon IndyCar Series will continue in Long Beach for the foreseeable future, following a vote announced late Tuesday night by the Long Beach City Council to re-up with the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach in a new long-term agreement.
The unanimous vote by the City Council brings to an end the speculation that Formula 1 could make a return, following efforts and media led by the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach race founder Chris Pook.
Instead, the vote ensures IndyCar will continue on the streets for several years in a new agreement reached. Most IndyCar races’ current contracts were up in 2018 so for IndyCar to solidify its future at its second-longest tenured race on the calendar, and its marquee street course event of the year, is good news for all parties.
This vote follows the results of a $150,000 study done by a consulting firm, which called the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach the “most qualified” firm to run the race on the streets.
Jim Michaelian, President & CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, issued the following statement:
Our CEO and our staff are grateful to the Long Beach City Council for their unanimous vote to keep us going! Cheers to many more #TGPLB! 🍻🏎🌴 pic.twitter.com/rmd1YtBt4w
— Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach (@GPLongBeach) August 9, 2017