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City council approves Firestone Grand Prix race days; staff say event brings tourism and tax revenue
Summary
Council approved a resolution authorizing race days for the 2025 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, with presenters citing about $61 million in regional economic impact and a Fox Sports TV contract; council praised long‑running event staff.
The St. Petersburg City Council voted unanimously to approve a resolution establishing race days for the 2025 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, a multi‑day IndyCar event that city and event partners described as a major tourism and marketing asset.
City development staff and longtime event organizers highlighted the event’s history and economic impact. City staff said a study estimated the event’s total economic impact at about $61 million (with approximately $37 million in direct spending and roughly $3.3 million in tax revenue to city coffers) and noted a new live partnership with Fox Sports for broadcast coverage.
Chris Balestra and other city staff recognized event logistics staff for years of service; race partners Kim Green and Kevin Savory described compressed build/dismantle timelines (down to about 15 days to build and a few days to load out) and praised operational improvements that reduce disruption to residents.
Councilmembers thanked event organizers for contributing to the city’s brand and local charities, and then moved and seconded approval. The clerk announced the motion to approve agenda item F2a passed unanimously.
Provenance: presentation, partner remarks, and formal council vote.
