The Grand Prix Association of Long Beach has 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.
The extension ensures that Toyota’s 41-year relationship with one of America’s premier street races will continue. Toyota has been title sponsor of the event since 1980, thought to be the longest consecutive entitlement in professional sports, while the automaker’s presence dates back 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.”
“We are absolutely thrilled to continue our relationship with Toyota Motor Sales and the Southern California Toyota Dealers Association,” added 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.”
