The IndyCar community is mourning the loss of Jim Michaelian, who passed away at the age of 83 on March 21. A founding figure behind the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, Michaelian played a central role in shaping it into one of the most recognized races in motorsports. The reason for his death has not been revealed.
Michaelian’s association with Long Beach spanned over five decades. He served as controller and chief operating officer before becoming president and CEO in 2001. His influence extended beyond the race itself, with contributions to several motorsport bodies like the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, Visit Long Beach , and the LA Sports Council.
The sudden death, weeks before what was set to be his final race in charge, has prompted tributes from across the paddock. Former IndyCar driver and current Fox analyst James Hinchcliffe reflected on his recent interaction with Michaelian on X:
“Floored by this news. Chatted to Jim last weekend. What he and his team built over decades at Long Beach Grand Prix stands as one of the great sporting events in the country. A racer through and through. He will be missed by many in our community.”
Two-time IndyCar champion Will Power also paid tribute on X:
“Saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Michaelian. Such a wonderful person and a big part of what kept the Long Beach GP so successful. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Felix Rosenqvist wrote:
“Rest in peace Jim.”
Current championship leader Kyle Kirkwood of Andretti Racing added:
“Very sad news. Jim’s passion and love for our sport is unmatched. An all-around fantastic person whose legacy will carry on for many generations. Jim will be truly missed by everyone.”
Jim Michaelian is set to be succeeded by Jim Liaw, who will take over leadership duties following this year’s Long Beach event.
Roger Penske leads tributes to Jim Michaelian’s legacy in IndyCar
Jim Michaelian’s contribution to motorsport was not limited to administration. For over 50 years, he helped establish Long Beach as a cornerstone event in American racing. What began as an ambitious street race evolved under his leadership into a globally recognized fixture.
Michaelian, who has a degree in physics and management, also raced in endurance events across major circuits, like Le Mans, Daytona, Nurburgring, Spa, Watkins Glen, and Sebring.
IndyCar owner, Roger Penske, also paid tribute to his long-time collaborator:
“Everyone at Penske Entertainment and within the IndyCar community is deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Michaelian… A leader of a small, passionate group who believed in the concept of bringing elite open-wheel competition to Long Beach in the 1970s, worked tirelessly to make it happen despite steep odds and then helped nurture the Grand Prix of Long Beach into becoming America’s premier street race.
“His vision and energy surrounding this great event remained boundless for 50 years, as no task was too small for Jim, even while he served in numerous leadership roles. Penske Entertainment is committed to honoring Jim’s legacy… Our deepest sympathies are with his family.”
IndyCar president Doug Boles echoed those sentiments, reposting on X and writing:
“A crazy, impossible vision 50+ years ago turned into an annual, epic racing event. Thanks Jim, for leading from the very start… and for the many shared laughs and conversations.”
Jim Michaelian’s passing leaves a significant void. His work helped define a standard for how motorsport could connect with fans, cities, and culture.
Edited by Hitesh Nigam