A management change has been confirmed for later this yr by the Grand Prix Affiliation of Lengthy Seaside, organizers of the annual Acura Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside.
The group introduced that longstanding President and CEO Jim Michaelian will assume a brand new position inside Penske Leisure efficient June 30, 2026, with Jim Liaw named the brand new President and CEO of the Grand Prix Affiliation beginning July 1, 2026.
Michaelian, 82, has been part of the Grand Prix Affiliation since its founding in 1975. He has served as Controller, Chief Working Officer and was named President & CEO in Dec. 2001. He has additionally served on the boards of the Grand Prix Basis of Lengthy Seaside, Go to Lengthy Seaside and the Los Angeles Sports activities Council through the years.
The upcoming 2026 occasion in April will proceed to be overseen by Michaelian, who will work intently with Liaw to make sure a clean management transition. Liaw, 50, will assume the short-term title of Basic Supervisor for the occasion.
Marcus Ericsson, Andretti International
Picture by: Penske Leisure
“Main the Grand Prix Affiliation and the Acura Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside has been the privilege of a lifetime,” mentioned Michaelian.
“This occasion and this group imply an incredible deal to me, and I’m pleased with what our staff has constructed collectively. Coming off our very profitable fiftieth celebration, I really feel that is the appropriate time to make this transition. For 50 years, I’ve been given the distinctive alternative to merge my ardour for motorsports with involvement with the longest-running avenue race in America, which has been a definite privilege.
“I’m grateful to the Metropolis of Lengthy Seaside, our sponsor companions, members, volunteers, and followers for his or her continued assist, and thanks additionally to Chris Pook, the originator of the Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside, and Kevin Kalkhoven and Jerry Forsythe for his or her invaluable assist in the course of the difficult instances up to now 50 years. And with the management of Penske Leisure, the brand new house owners of the Grand Prix Affiliation, the way forward for the occasion is in wonderful fingers.”
Liaw comes into the position with an intensive background within the motorsports business, together with being a Basic Supervisor of Efficiency Racing Trade. He additionally served as President of Formulation Drift, which he co-founded with Ryan Sage in 2003.
“I’m honored to affix the Grand Prix Affiliation of Lengthy Seaside and to assist lead some of the acknowledged and revered occasions in motorsports,” mentioned Liaw.
“The Acura Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside is extremely significant to me – it was the primary main race I ever attended practically 30 years in the past, and it helped spark a lifelong connection to motorsports. Southern California has been residence since I used to be six, so it’s really an honor to characterize Lengthy Seaside and the area whereas main such a particular occasion. I’m excited to be a part of this iconic race and to assist form its future for generations to come back.”
President Leisure Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles prolonged his appreciation for Michaelian’s contributions to the Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside.
“IndyCar owes an immense debt of gratitude to Jim Michaelian,” Penske Leisure Corp. President and CEO Mark Miles mentioned. “From Day One, his steering, administration and exemplary management, has made the Acura Grand Prix of Lengthy Seaside a marquee occasion and a beloved fan-favorite on the NTT IndyCar Sequence calendar. I do know our paddock – previous and current – and many years of racing champions and legends be a part of me in congratulating Jim on the impactful legacy he leaves.
“As we glance to the long run, we consider Jim Liaw is a perfect match to develop the latest development and recognition of a race weekend, which is strategically essential and a giant precedence for IndyCar. His distinctive background and keenness for motorsports will serve this historic occasion in a strong approach.”
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