Race Weekend Central

Gillian Zucker Stepping Down as Auto Club Speedway CEO

Gillian Zucker is trading in the high speed world of NASCAR for the hardwoods of the National Basketball Association. The Los Angeles Clippers announced on Thursday that it had hired the Auto Club Speedway president to the position of president of business operations. Zucker has spent the last nine years with Auto Club Speedway.

I am extremely happy to add a leader like Gillian to our team,” Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer said in a release. “Her clear and creative business vision, innovative approach to marketing and experience working in the Los Angeles sports market make her the perfect fit to lead the Clippers during this transcendent time.” 

Zucker was appointed as president of the speedway in 2005 and oversaw all aspects of the speedway’s business.  She also was responsible for making NASCAR fashionable in Southern California and completed the only active track naming rights agreement in 2008.

“What an exciting time to be part of the L.A. Clippers,” said Zucker.  “There’s something special happening in this organization that has captured the attention of Los Angeles, the NBA and the nation. Steve Ballmer’s energy and enthusiasm is contagious and inspiring.  We are just getting started.” 

Prior to her time at Auto Club Speedway, Zucker served as Daytona International Speedway’s vice president of business and development. She joined International Speedway Corporation (ISC), the owner of Auto Club Speedway, in 1998 as director of business development for Kansas Speedway and was shortly promoted to vice president of operational development.  

About the author

Justin starts his second year with the Frontstretch in 2014, responsible for Sprint Cup news in our e-newsletter twice a week. Also a Frontstretch Power Rankings contributor, he acts as “super sub” filling in for various columns throughout the season. He resides out in Missouri.

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