Rising Open-Wheel Star Ricco Shlaimoun to Make Highly Anticipated SRO GT America Debut at Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach

LONG BEACH, C.A. (April 6, 2025) — Rising motorsport star Ricco Shlaimoun is set to make his highly anticipated debut at the iconic Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach this weekend. He’ll be joining ACI Motorsports for a one-off appearance in the GT America Powered by AWS series, with ACI typically competing in GT4 America series in 2025. This marks Shlaimoun's first race in the SRO GT America series, and it promises to be an exciting showdown at one of the world’s most legendary street circuits.

"I’m really excited to make my debut at Long Beach and to joinACI Motorsports for this incredible event," said Shlaimoun. "This track has so much history, and having come from open-wheel racing, it’s going to be a whole new challenge for me. I'm looking forward to adjusting to the unique demands of GT racing, learning from the team, and seeing how I can adapt my driving style to one of the most iconic street circuits in the world. It’s going to be an amazing experience."

Ricco’s racing journey began in karting, where he quickly captured multiple championship titles across the Junior TAG and Shifter categories. His early success is underscored by an impressive record, boasting standout win rates and a string of podium finishes that reflect his competitiveness. Transitioning from karting to car racing, Ricco built an exceptional resume competing in GT4, LamborghiniSuper Trofeo, and Formula 4. Following a successful open-wheel career, he is now making the transition to GT racing, marking a significant step in his development as a driver.

In 2024, Ricco completed a full season in Formula Regional, where his performances included several podium finishes and key victories that cemented his status as a formidable competitor, one whose rapid progression across multiple series makes him one to watch. His momentum continues as he prepares to step into FIA International Formula 3 in 2025, with plans to advance to Formula 2 later that year, paving the way toward his ultimate goal of competing in Formula 1.

The 2025 GT America Powered by AWS season continues with rounds 3 and 4 on the streets ofLong Beach, where a thrilling mix of seasoned contenders and fresh challengers will battle for wins at one of the most prestigious events in North America. As the championship shifts to its first street circuit of the year, top teams across all classes (SRO3, GT2, and GT4) are ready to navigate the tight corners and high-speed straights of this iconic circuit.

Shlaimoun and ACI Motorsports will hit the streets of Long Beach this weekend, further elevating the excitement of the SRO GT America series with a blend of veteran competition and emerging talent.

"We’re excited to have Ricco join ACI Motorsports for Long Beach," said Curt Swearingin, TeamPrincipal. "He’s an extremely talented young driver with a strong background across multipleseries, and his track record gives us every confidence that he will thrive in the SROenvironment. Long Beach is a challenging circuit, but we’re confident Ricco will rise to the occasion."

Catch Ricco Shlaimoun live in action. Races will be streamed live on the GT World YouTubeChannel. For live timing, updates, and more information, visit GT America’s website: gtamerica.us.

Weekend Event Schedule (Pacific Time):

Practice 1: Friday, April 19 | 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM PT
Practice 2: Friday, April 19 | 11:20 AM – 11:50 AM PT
Qualifying: Friday, April 19 | 4:40 PM – 5:10 PM PT
Race 1: Saturday, April 20 | 5:25 PM – 6:05 PM PT
Race 2: Sunday, April 21 | 4:05 PM – 4:45 PM PT

About ACI Motorsports

ACI Motorsports is owned by current Pirelli GT4 America driver and Team Principal CurtSwearingin.

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