Thailand Moves Closer to Hosting Formula 1 Grand Prix
Bangkok, Thailand – The Thai cabinet has officially approved a $1.2 billion initiative to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix starting in 2028, marking a significant step toward bringing world-class motorsport to the region. This proposal outlines an initial five-year agreement that would run through 2032, featuring a street circuit in the Chatuchak Park area of Bangkok.
Key Developments
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Funding Approval: The Thai government’s green light on funding enables race organizers to advance discussions with Formula 1 regarding the event’s inclusion in the racing calendar.
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Technical Insights: The planned 3.54-mile (5.7 km) circuit will combine urban streets with park sections, drawing inspiration from the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. Organizers have conducted site visits to assess logistics and infrastructure needs, benchmarking against successful events in Melbourne and Singapore.
- Government Support: Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has engaged directly with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, underscoring government commitment. Thai government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub emphasized the potential economic and cultural impact of hosting such an event, stating, “In the next two to three years, Thailand will have world-class competition, which we never thought would actually happen in Thailand.”
Calendar Considerations
While the 2024 race calendar is expected to remain at 24 events, Bangkok could enter the rotation as the Belgian Grand Prix transitions to a rotating model, with potential reductions for races in Zandvoort and Barcelona.
As negotiations progress, Thailand’s aspirations for a Grand Prix underscore a broader trend of expanding Formula 1’s global footprint, attracting new markets and audiences.
