Quote:
Originally Posted by GH85Carrera
Wow. I would expect those prices at Monaco, but Miami? No fricking way would I pay anything close to that for food when I can eat in a few hours at normal prices.
That is pretty obscene pricing.
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You shouldn't even have that thought. The F1 series left Long Beach after the '83 race. They were even at that time asking for
way more than was economically feasible. The LB city council in agreement with the LBGP Assoc. told them to not let the door hit them in a the ass on the way out.
The first Champ Car race (Indy Car) the next year actually had a couple of cars arrive on an open car trailer. Just for the record, I think these were Dale Coyne and Dick Simon. IIRC, there was on car that didn't qualify owned by some local businessmen and a couple cops. Ironically the entrant was PIG Racing.
Anyway, it was a lowbrow affair that was widely accepted and popular and has been ever since. Mario won the first 2 years and Michael got his first win in the 3rd year. It has been said that Mario was responsible (more or less) for the success.
Now for the real irony: LBGP reported this year one of the best crowds ever at 192,000 over 3 days. (I honestly don't know the count method). The Miami crowd was estimated at 243,000. That's insane given how crowded and sold out all of LB is on GP weekend.
Yes, the LBPG has gotten more expensive over the years, but it's still a bargain:
General admission · Friday: $38. · Saturday: $77. · Sunday: $82. · Three-day package: $112.
Parking can be tough but it costs way more to park at a Dodgers or Angels game. Many people park uptown (free) and take the train or bus to the front gate for a little over a dollar.
One can go full luxury for just under $1200. You get it all including catering for breakfast and lunch in a suite with passes to anywhere you want to go. Alcohol extra.
Or you can buy a photo pass that just lets you into some cool view spots and the pits at select times for $265.