History of the Detroit Grand Prix
The word Grand Prix originates from the French word “Grand Prize” which embodies Formula 1 racing around the world. The name Formula 1, was adopted by the Grand Prix organizers strict list of car qualifications and the “1” representing top of the class for all open wheel racing.
In 1982 the United States became the first country to host three World Championship Grand Prix races in one season. Detroit was one of the cities hosting Formula 1 racing. Grabbing the title of the Detroit Grand Prix, the racecourse was through the streets in downtown Detroit.
In 1992 the location and racecourse changed. The Detroit Grand Prix moved to Belle Isle. A beautiful island park along the Detroit River.
In 2007, under new management the race was taken over by Indy/Car Series. By 2012 Chevrolet became the title sponsor of the event in addition to the promotional group, a subsidiary of Downtown Detroit Partnership.
By 2019 the City of Detroit was celebrating thirty years of Grand Prix racing.
In 2023, the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix, presented by Lear, returned home to the streets of downtown Detroit.
Also returning to the Motor City during the Detroit Grand Prix weekend is the Indy NXT Series, titled Firestone Detroit Grand Prix.
