Night racing is coming to Long Beach.

For the first time in the 39-year history of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, there will be competition after dark with the introduction of an invitational “drifting” competition.

Drifting, an extreme motor sport popularized in Japan in which drivers lose traction and slide sideways, has been a part of the Grand Prix for the last eight years, but this year will mark its debut as a prize-money event.

The competition, in which drivers are judged according to their speed, angle and line taken through the course, features a $25,000 purse, the largest of any such competition in the United States.

The race, sponsored by aftermarket parts manufacturer Motegi Racing, will be open to holders of tickets to the April 19-21 Grand Prix, according to Grand Prix Chief Executive Jim Michaelian.

Michaelian said he worked with sanctioning body Formula Drift to ensure enough racers would participate, and he brought in Motegi as the title sponsor to cover incremental costs. Fans with general admission tickets to the Grand Prix will be able to attend the drifting competition, which will take place on turns nine, 10 and 11.

“We’re hoping to have a large crowd there,” Michaelian said, adding that the drifting event is a way to use the track when it is normally shut down.

The Grand Prix now hosts seven races, two concerts, and an expo and car show.

– David Nusbaum