By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
The racing world lost one of its most influential figures this past week with the passing of Jim Michaelian, longtime President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. He was 83.
A founding staff member of the annual Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, Michaelian dedicated more than five decades to the event, helping transform it into one of the premier street races in the world. Over the years, he served as the organization’s controller, chief operating officer, and, beginning in December 2001, its president and CEO.
Under his leadership, the Grand Prix evolved beyond motorsports into a major cultural and economic engine for the city—blending elite racing competition with entertainment, civic pride, and business development.
A Vision That Shaped Long Beach
“Jim didn’t just lead the Grand Prix—he lived it,” Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson said in a statement. “His passion, warmth, and dedication turned an event into a tradition, and a tradition into a source of pride for generations of Long Beach residents.”
Michaelian’s influence extended far beyond race weekend. He served on several boards, including the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, Visit Long Beach, and the Los Angeles Sports Council—further cementing his role in shaping the region’s sports and tourism landscape.
Roger Penske, chairman of Penske Corporation, reflected on Michaelian’s early vision and lasting impact.
“Jim was a leader of a small, passionate group who believed in bringing elite open-wheel competition to Long Beach in the 1970s,” Penske said. “He worked tirelessly to make it happen despite steep odds and helped nurture the Grand Prix into becoming America’s premier street race. His energy and commitment remained boundless for 50 years.”
A Racer at Heart
Beyond his executive leadership, Michaelian had a deep personal connection to motorsports. A graduate of UCLA with a bachelor’s degree in physics and an MBA, he was also a competitive sports car racer for more than 25 years.
He competed in endurance races at some of the world’s most iconic tracks, including Le Mans, Daytona, Nürburgring, Spa, Watkins Glen, Dubai, and Sebring—experiences that further fueled his lifelong passion for racing.
Colleagues and friends recall him as both intellectually curious and deeply engaged, equally comfortable discussing motorsports, finance, or politics.
“Around the table, conversations with Jim were always lively and thoughtful,” one associate shared. “He was an avid reader, a sharp thinker, and someone people naturally turned to for advice.”
A Lasting Legacy
Those who knew Michaelian say his greatest strength was his leadership by example. His integrity, humility, and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
“More than anything, Jim was someone who cared,” a Grand Prix Association statement read. “Through his actions, his values, and the way he treated people, he built relationships that will endure for generations.”
Michaelian is survived by his wife, Mary, and their sons, Bob and Mike.
“A loving and devoted husband, nothing meant more to Jim than his family,” the statement added. “He especially treasured the time he spent with his two boys, creating memories that will be carried forever.”