The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach announced that it has reached a multi-year agreement with Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. and the Southern California Toyota Dealers Association to continue as the title sponsor of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.
Toyota has been title sponsor of the event since 1980, while the automaker’s presence dates to serving as the official pace car at the event’s inaugural running in 1975.
“For the last four decades, Toyota has been proud of its affiliation with the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach,” said Dave Harbuck, corporate manager of motorsports and engagement marketing, Toyota. “This title sponsorship has provided Toyota with the opportunity to showcase great racing in a fun environment for the fans.”
The 2016 race weekend, featuring the Verizon IndyCar Series, is scheduled for April 15-17.
As part of the agreement, Toyota will again become title sponsor of the fan-favorite Toyota Pro/Celebrity Race, which has played host to the biggest stars of the entertainment and sports world since 1977. During its 39 year history, Toyota has donated more than $2 million dollars to local children’s hospitals on behalf of the Racing for Kids charitable organization.
“We are absolutely thrilled to continue our relationship with Toyota Motor Sales and the Southern California Toyota Dealers Association,” said Jim Michaelian, president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. “They have been an extraordinary partner in our event from the very beginning, and we look forward to extending this relationship to new heights in the coming years.”
For event information, visit gplb.com.