IndyCar Schedule, Drivers, Race Time
2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach: Fast Facts, Schedule & IndyCar Race Time
The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach returns as one of North America’s most iconic street races, blending high-speed precision with a downtown backdrop that consistently delivers drama. As Round 5 of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the Long Beach weekend stands out as a key early-season battleground where momentum can quickly shift in the championship.
Here’s everything you need to know, from essential fast facts to race-day broadcast details.
What Is the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach?
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is one of the premier events on the IndyCar calendar, headlined by the NTT INDYCAR SERIES and supported by multiple racing categories. It combines top-tier motorsport with a festival-style atmosphere, making it one of the most attended and recognizable races in North America.
The 2026 edition continues that tradition with a full weekend of on-track action, including IMSA competition and Porsche Carrera Cup racing, giving fans a diverse lineup across three days.
When and Where Is the 2026 Race?
The event takes place from April 17 to April 19, 2026, on the streets of Long Beach, California. The temporary street circuit measures 1.968 miles and winds through the downtown core, featuring tight corners, heavy braking zones, and unforgiving barriers.
This layout rewards precision and discipline, often creating unpredictable race outcomes where strategy and track position play a decisive role.
IndyCar Race Details, Who to Watch
The Long Beach race marks Round 5 of the 2026 IndyCar season and features a highly competitive grid filled with championship contenders and race winners.
Among the key names expected on the grid are defending Long Beach winner Kyle Kirkwood, series champion Alex Palou, and proven veterans such as Scott Dixon, Josef Newgarden, and Will Power. Drivers like Pato O’Ward and Louis Foster add another layer of unpredictability, making this one of the most competitive races on the calendar.
With limited passing zones and high consequences for mistakes, Long Beach consistently tests both driver skill and team strategy.
Broadcast Schedule, How to Watch
The 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will be widely available across major broadcast platforms, ensuring global access to the race weekend.
The IndyCar race takes place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, with a scheduled start time of 5:30 PM ET. Coverage will air live on FOX.
Additional coverage throughout the weekend includes IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship action, which will be broadcast across NBC and Peacock platforms.
IndyCar’s global reach continues to expand, with races distributed in more than 200 countries and territories, further solidifying Long Beach as a marquee international event.
Key Fast Facts
The event spans three full days of racing action in downtown Long Beach. The circuit is a tight 1.968-mile temporary street course that leaves little room for error. The race serves as Round 5 of the 2026 IndyCar season and features a multi-series lineup including IndyCar, IMSA, and Porsche Carrera Cup. The IndyCar race airs live on FOX at 5:30 PM ET, reaching audiences worldwide. It remains one of the most historic and recognizable street races in North America.
Why Long Beach Still Matters
Long Beach continues to hold a unique place on the IndyCar calendar. It’s a race where precision outweighs outright speed, and where even the smallest mistake can define the outcome.
For drivers, it’s a proving ground that demands focus and control. For fans, it delivers close racing and high-stakes moments in a visually iconic setting. In 2026, it once again shapes up to be a critical stop in the championship fight.
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