Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame

A back-to-back winner of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach and a man whose steadfast support for the race helped maintain its status as one of North America’s premier motorsport events are the 2026 honorees for the Motorsports Walk of Fame. Driver Alexander Rossi and former Long Beach Mayor Robert “Bob” Foster will be celebrated at a free, open-to-the-public ceremony on April 16, 2026, on the palm-lined sidewalk along South Pine Avenue in front of the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center.

The event, held a day before the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach (April 17–19), will induct Rossi and the late Mayor Foster into the Walk of Fame beginning at 11 A.M. Honorees—or their representatives—will unveil 22-inch bronze medallions describing their achievements, enshrining their contributions to motorsports on the Walk of Fame, which is celebrating its 20th year.

Credit: City of Long Beach

“As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of our Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame, it is our privilege to honor two legends who have been instrumental in shaping the history of the Grand Prix of Long Beach and the racing world,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “This year, we are celebrating the accomplishments of the two-time Long Beach winning driver Alexander Rossi and paying a meaningful tribute to the life and legacy of our beloved Mayor Bob Foster, whose dedication and leadership guided our city through some of its most challenging times.”

Alexander Rossi

Alexander Rossi is one of the most accomplished American open-wheel drivers of his generation. Known for his speed, versatility and precise driving skill, he first gained global attention in 2016 by winning the Indianapolis 500 as a rookie—the first rookie winner since 2001 and the first American rookie to do so since 1928.

Rossi was soon to follow that up with back-to-back victories at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach in 2018 and 2019, dominating both races from pole position and leading the majority of laps. The Southern California street circuit, considered IndyCar’s premier event after the Indianapolis 500 itself, has seen only four drivers claim consecutive wins, with Rossi being the only driver to accomplish the feat this century.

Born in Nevada City, California, Rossi began racing go-karts at age 10, quickly capturing multiple national and international championships. His early success led him to Europe, where he won in Formula 2 and the World Series by Renault and went on to make several starts in Formula One in 2015. In 2021, he and Helio Castroneves teamed up to win the 24 Hours of Daytona.

Now an eight-time IndyCar winner with nearly 100 top-10 finishes and dozens of podiums, Rossi continues to build one of the most impressive resumes in American motorsports. Off the track, he celebrated a milestone in 2024 when he and his wife Kelly welcomed their son, Ben.

Following the ceremony, Rossi will be available to sign autographs.

“It is an absolute honor to induct Alexander and Mayor Foster into our Walk of Fame,” said First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas. “What they have accomplished inspires all of us, and by bestowing this lasting recognition, we will enshrine the legacies they have left on the racing world and our City’s sporting history.”

Robert “Bob” Foster

Robert “Bob” Foster served as Mayor of Long Beach from 2006 to 2014, guiding the city through one of its most challenging economic periods since the Great Depression. Drawing on his experience as President of Southern California Edison and Chief of Staff for the Senate Public Utilities and Transit and Energy Committee, Foster helped stabilize city finances, achieving Long Beach’s first budget surplus in 14 years and overseeing the lowest violent crime rates in more than four decades.

Foster was a passionate advocate for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, understanding its significance to the city’s economy, culture and international reputation. His unwavering support helped strengthen the city’s partnership with the race, ensuring it remained one of North America’s premier street circuits. Foster’s efforts contributed to making Long Beach a celebrated destination for motorsports fans while promoting local tourism and community pride.

After leaving office, he continued to serve the city on nonprofit and community boards, earning admiration for his authenticity, sharp wit and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Foster passed away in November 2025 at age 78. In recognition of his contributions to Long Beach and its signature event, his wife, Nancy Foster, will accept the Walk of Fame honor on his behalf.

“The Walk of Fame is a prestigious mark of honor and esteem that acknowledges the immeasurable contributions to our city and racing history,” said Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen. “It is with great pride that we cement our late Mayor Bob Foster's lasting influence and Alexander’s impressive racing legacy on our beautiful shoreline.”

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.