CERRITOS, CA (March 12, 2012) – American Racing returns to the Long Beach Grand Prix as an official sponsor in 2012, resuming a company tradition that dates back to the early days of the historic racing event.

American Racing has a long and respected history. With roots in aftermarket performance wheels dating back to the golden era of hot rodding in the mid-1950s, the American Racing brand is an essential part of American automotive culture.

"We're excited to bring American Racing back to the Long Beach Grand Prix," said Jody Groce, president of Wheel Pros, the company that owns the American Racing brand. "It's an historic relationship that we're proud to bring back for 2012."

In addition to partnering with the Long Beach Grand Prix, American Racing also returns to IndyCar in 2012 as a partner to the KV Racing Technology team, bringing together a legendary team and the storied brand.

From American Racing's founding days in a California drag-racing shop, to its modern-day partnership with NHRA funny car racer Tony Pedregon and the KV Racing Technology team, the wheel company has always supported motorsport.

"American Racing has a foundation in muscle cars," said Groce. "The Chevrolet engines that drive KV Racing Technology's vehicles represent some serious modern performance."

KV Racing Technology fields competition vehicles piloted by E.J. Viso, Tony Kanaan and Rubens Barrichello in the 2012 IndyCar series. The Indianapolis-based team was founded in January 2003 and joined the IndyCar Series in 2008. It is owned by successful venture capitalist Kevin Kalkhoven and 1996 IndyCar Champion Jimmy Vasser.

The 38th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach features wheel-to-wheel racing on an historic 1.97-mile, 11-turn seaside street circuit in Long Beach, CA, April 13-15, 2012.

ABOUT AMERICAN RACING

Founded in 1956 manufacturing magnesium and aluminum racing wheels, American Racing is one of the world’s largest aftermarket wheel manufacturers and distributors. Owned today by Wheel Pros, American Racing products are sold worldwide and through a U.S. network of more than 25,000 authorized dealers. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, American Racing is a wheel industry leader in craftsmanship, engineering, innovation and performance.

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