Jim Michaelian passed away earlier today at 83-years-old after more than half a century as a key figure in the establishment and development of the Grand Prix of Long Beach.
Jim’s passing was confirmed by Penske Entertainment, which released the following statement:
“Everyone at Penske Entertainment and within the IndyCar community is deeply saddened by the passing of Jim Michaelian,” read a statement from Roger Penske.
“Jim was 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 honouring Jim’s legacy of putting fans and competitors first as we continue to build on the strong foundation he and his staff created for a half-century in Long Beach.
“Our deepest sympathies are with his wife, Mary, and their sons, Bob and Mike.”
Jim’s role with the Long Beach event developed with the stature of the Californian classic, latterly as the President and CEO of the event under the ownership of Penske Entertainment from late 2024.
Jim was also a regular racer himself with multiple starts at the Rolex 24 as well as races in both Grand Am and the American Le Mans Series, he raced too multiple times at the Nurburgring 24 Hours, Gulf 12 Hours and made an appearance too in the Road to Le Mans Le Mans support event in an LMP3 Ligier.
His son Bob carries on that racing gene and finished a fine ninth overall in yesterday’s Michelin Pilot Challenge race at Sebring.
IMSA President John Doonan was one of the first to respond to the news of Jim’s passing:
“All of us here at IMSA are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of longtime Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President and CEO Jim Michaelian.
“Jim was a racer’s racer and a dear friend to IMSA and the motorsports community at large. In addition to his stewardship of the Long Beach event, Jim was a frequent competitor in IMSA races over the years.
“We will sorely miss his presence at Long Beach and racetracks everywhere. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jim’s family, friends and colleagues. This is a devastating loss for our motorsports family.”
All at DSC send our profound condolences to Jim’s family and countless friends in the industry and far beyond.
Image courtesy of IMSA
