Long Beach Grand Prix Kicks Off With Racing and Lupe Fiasco

The 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach kicked off Friday with a blend of high-speed racing action and live music, featuring practice sessions across multiple series, the start of the drifting competition and a headline concert by Grammy Award-winning artist Lupe Fiasco. The event, held on the 1.97-mile street circuit surrounding the Long Beach Convention Center, marked the beginning of a three-day celebration of motorsport and entertainment.

According to the official schedule, Friday’s activities began at 7:30 a.m. With gates opening to the public, followed by practice sessions for the Porsche Carrera Cup, Historic Sports Cars, and IMSA series starting at 7:45 a.m. The featured IndyCar practice session took place from 3:00 p.m. To 4:30 p.m., drawing teams and drivers preparing for Sunday’s main race.

In addition to on-track action, the drifting competition commenced Friday night, offering fans a high-octane display of car control and precision. The evening’s entertainment culminated at 6:30 p.m. With Lupe Fiasco taking the stage on the Terrace Plaza for the Friday Concert Presented by Acura. The performance was free for all Friday ticket holders, adding a musical highlight to the day’s racing festivities.

Lupe Fiasco, known for hits such as “Kick, Push,” “Superstar,” “The Show Goes On,” and “Battle Scars,” expressed enthusiasm about participating in the event. “I’ve always been a fan of racing and car culture, so I’m happy to be a part of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach,” he said in a statement released by the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach.

His latest album, Samurai, continues his tradition of layered storytelling, exploring themes of identity, purpose, and personal reflection in the context of success and the music industry. The album reflects on the rewards and disillusionments of reaching one’s goals and the journey back to self after achieving what was once thought desired.

Jim Liaw, President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, praised the artist’s contribution to the weekend. “We’re thrilled to welcome Lupe Fiasco to the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach for our Friday Concert Presented by Acura,” Liaw said. “He’s an extraordinary artist with a dynamic stage presence, and this performance will be an exciting way for fans to finish off a great day of racing, entertainment and the Long Beach lifestyle.”

The concert is part of a broader celebration tied to Acura’s 40th anniversary as the first Japanese luxury automaker, which debuted in 1986. As part of the milestone, Acura has launched special initiatives at the event to honor its racing heritage and ongoing commitment to innovation, including anniversary-themed activations and fan experiences throughout the weekend.

Saturday’s schedule includes IndyCar qualifying and the Kings of Chaos concert, while Sunday features the featured Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach IndyCar race. Together, the three-day event combines professional racing, interactive fan experiences, and nightly musical performances, reinforcing Long Beach’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and culture.