A city race in the Thai capital Bangkok from 2028 is getting closer – the government has approved the bid
Thailand has taken a big step closer to hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix on the streets of Bangkok: The country’s cabinet approved an official bid on Tuesday.
According to the bid, Thailand plans to become part of the Formula 1 calendar for an initial period of five years starting in 2028. A budget of around 1.2 billion US dollars (approximately 1.04 billion euros) has been allocated for the project.
The decision was announced at a press conference where Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong spoke about the approval of the eleven-digit sum. A race in Thailand is now more realistic than ever.
Domenicali and Albon on site
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali had already traveled to Bangkok at the beginning of the year to discuss a possible race with local representatives. Williams driver Alexander Albon, who has Thai roots, was also involved in the talks and met with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.
Albon was positive after his visit: “Things are definitely moving forward. Of course, nothing is final yet, but it’s nice to see how seriously Thailand is taking the issue,” he said at the time.
“They are pursuing this very professionally and have a strong concept. I’ve already gotten a rough overview of the project—it looks good. But I can’t say much more and prefer to hold back. In any case, I’m following some very interesting developments.”
Boom for the economy
The Thai government expects the Grand Prix to provide a significant economic boost, primarily through international tourism and the global appeal of Formula 1. According to reports, a memorandum of understanding has already been signed between the government and Formula 1.
It is still unclear how a possible Thailand Grand Prix could be integrated into the existing race calendar. The season currently comprises 24 races, which, according to Domenicali, is already the upper limit. However, according to the regulations, there would still be room for another race.
It is conceivable that European Grands Prix will switch to a rotation system in the coming years, which could free up a slot for the race in Bangkok. A race in Thailand would also mark Formula 1’s return to Southeast Asia, where the last race was held in Malaysia in 2017.
