The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach: Where Racing Meets California Culture [35 Photos]

All photo credits: Robert Nguyen.

View the 50th Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach legendary races, exotic cars, and thrilling IndyCar action set against Southern California’s vibrant coastal culture through the lens of Robert Nguyen.

The 50th Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach transformed the city’s waterfront into a racing hub, celebrating 50 years as an American motorsport icon. The milestone weekend featured a Legends race with icons like Mario Andretti and Al Unser Jr., who served as co-grand marshals for the anniversary, revisiting the track that defined their careers. Meanwhile, the Exotic Car display drew crowds with nearly 250 supercars and hypercars. From vintage showcases to pit-lane intensity, the event honored its history while delivering modern thrills.
 
In the NTT IndyCar Series, Kyle Kirkwood dominated the 1.968-mile circuit, leading every lap to secure his second Long Beach victory. Alex Palou and Will Power completed the podium, their battle for second place keeping fans on edge until the final turn. Meanwhile, Porsche Penske Motorsport’s Felipe Nasr and Matt Campbell claimed victory in the IMSA SportsCar Championship, their hybrid-powered 963 overcoming fierce competition in the sprint to the checkered flag.
 
Beyond the track, the event channeled Southern California’s signature energy. Fans cheered from grandstands and leaned over railings with their cameras ready to catch the blur of speed. Food vendors served local street tacos, county fair-style turkey legs, and cold brew. Against the backdrop of palm trees and ocean breezes, the weekend became a celebration of speed, heritage, and coastal culture.
 
Missed out? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at the festivities through the lens of sports photojournalist Robert Nguyen, aka ‘@Aussie.Rob.