By Luis Torres, Staff Writer
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is one of INDYCAR’s most prestigious events of the season and for a valid reason.
A former stop in the Formula One World Championship from 1976-1983, American Open Wheel Racing have since kept the Southern California street course alive and vibrant. More than any other street courses, Long Beach has had the luxury of having stability which has kept the venue on the calendar on an annual basis.
Fans pack the venue to see various racing disciplines, ranging from sports cars to drifting. It can be argued that Long Beach is auto racing’s ultimate fan experience where both entertainment and racing are equally its core selling points.
Once things get down to business, it’s about who can put themselves in excellent position to be a contender throughout the 85-lap contest. More than any other venue, track position is paramount where qualifying plays an important role in how a racer goes about their race.
Two-time Long Beach winner Alexander Rossi is looking to bounce back after a pit lane incident with Kyle Kirkwood at Texas. He explained during media availability about the importance of having a strong qualifying effort in order to be in the hunt for a race win at the 1.968-mile street course.
“You want to be towards the front. It goes in order of qualifying. For example, Felix got to pick first at Long Beach based on Texas, then down the qualifying order,” said Rossi.
“For Long Beach it’s important to be in the front in terms of pit selection just so that when you’re leaving to go to practice, qualifying sims, whatever, you have as much clear track in front of you as possible.”
Following an unforgettable race in Fort Worth, the minds shift to having a strong result that could come a long way in the championship trail.
A win at Long Beach is a badge of honor and if last year was an indication with Josef Newgarden feeling relieved to finally winning there. Whomever takes the checkered flag this Sunday, they’ve accomplished something tremendous in their racing career.
By the Numbers
What: 48th Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, NTT IndyCar Series Race No. 3 of 17
Where: Streets of Long Beach – Long Beach, California (Opened: 1975, first INDYCAR event was 1984)
When: Sunday, April 16
TV/Radio: NBC 3:00 p.m. EST / INDYCAR Radio Network (SiriusXM Channels 85 & 160)
Track Size: 1.968-mile street course
Race Length: 85 laps, 168.28…
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