Streets Of Long Beach

The Streets of Long Beach racing circuit stands as one of North America's most iconic urban racetracks, winding through the scenic downtown area of Long Beach, California. This temporary street circuit has hosted top-tier motorsports events since 1975, earning a reputation for challenging drivers with its mix of fast straightaways and technical corners. Located along the Pacific coastline, the track offers spectators stunning waterfront views while showcasing the vibrant cityscape of Long Beach.

Circuit Layout and Technical Specifications

The current configuration of the Streets of Long Beach circuit spans 1.968 miles (3.167 kilometers) with 11 distinct turns. This FIA Grade 2 temporary street course centers around the Long Beach Convention Center, which serves as the paddock area. The track features a signature long straightaway on Shoreline Drive where cars reach their top speeds. A defining element of all Long Beach layouts has been the tight hairpin turn, forcing drivers to slow dramatically before accelerating onto the main straight. Six of the 11 corners approach 90-degree angles, creating multiple challenging braking zones and overtaking opportunities. The circuit incorporates existing city streets, bringing racing action close to concrete walls that leave little room for error.

Historical Evolution

Racing in Long Beach began in 1975 with a Formula 5000 event won by Brian Redman. The circuit gained international prominence when it hosted the Formula One United States Grand Prix West from 1976 to 1983. Clay Regazzoni claimed victory in the inaugural F1 race in 1976, while Mario Andretti made history in 1977 as the first American to win a Formula 1 race in the United States Grand Prix at Long Beach. The 1983 race produced an extraordinary achievement when John Watson won from the 22nd starting position, a record in Formula One for the lowest starting position for a race winner. In 1984, the event transitioned to the CART IndyCar series, beginning a new chapter in the circuit's history. The track has undergone several layout modifications throughout its existence to accommodate changing safety standards and urban development, though all versions maintained the core elements that define its character.

Modern Racing Calendar

Today, the circuit hosts the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, a premier event on the IndyCar Series calendar. The race weekend has expanded to include the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and various support races. The track briefly welcomed Formula E electric racing in 2015 and 2016 on a modified layout. The Long Beach Grand Prix holds the distinction of being the longest-running major street race in North America, attracting thousands of spectators each year.

Circuit Construction and City Impact

The temporary nature of the Streets of Long Beach circuit requires significant preparation. Track construction involves thousands of work hours, numerous concrete barriers, extensive fencing, and thousands of connected tires to create safety barriers. The circuit runs over the former site of "The Pike" amusement zone, connecting the city's past with its present. Beyond motorsport, the Long Beach Grand Prix played a key role in the city's revitalization, helping transform Long Beach from an industrial port city into a popular tourist destination. The annual race brings substantial economic benefits to the area while showcasing the city to a global audience, demonstrating how motorsport can positively impact urban development while providing thrilling racing action in a unique setting.