Thailand is on the brink of making history by joining the F1 calendar.
- A crucial meeting in Bangkok aims to advance plans for a Formula 1 street race.
- The initiative is backed by Thailand’s rich motorsport culture and Red Bull’s local ties.
- Discussions suggest a 2028 debut, aligning with expiring contracts elsewhere.
- Other countries like Rwanda and South Africa are also vying for a spot, but Thailand is leading the charge.
Thailand is gearing up for a landmark moment as it pushes to secure a spot on the Formula 1 calendar. A significant meeting in Bangkok is set to discuss the much-anticipated Thai Grand Prix project, which aims to introduce a thrilling street race around the city. This move is part of Thailand’s broader effort to carve out a place in the global motorsport scene.
The idea of bringing Formula 1 to Thailand is not new. With Red Bull’s deep-rooted connections, thanks to Thai billionaire Chalerm Yoovidhya holding a major stake, the country has long been a potential candidate. Moreover, Thailand has been hosting international motorsport events, including MotoGP races at the Buriram circuit since 2018, showcasing its ability to pull off major events.
Formula One Management’s Stefano Domenicali has already visited Thailand to discuss the race’s possibilities, indicating significant interest and progress. While the Thai GP is unlikely to join immediately, a 2028 debut is being eyed. This timing aligns perfectly with the end of the current contracts of other Grand Prix events, allowing room for Thailand’s entry.
Interestingly, Thailand is not the only nation looking to expand its footprint in Formula 1. Rwanda and South Africa are also pursuing opportunities. Rwanda’s plan is tied to bolstering its tourism sector, backed by a new airport hub. Meanwhile, South Africa’s initiatives include a race in Cape Town and a potential revival of the Kyalami circuit, last used for F1 in 1993. Despite these efforts, Thailand’s project appears to be the most advanced, gaining ample attention from the F1 community.
Adding a Thai Grand Prix would mean adjusting the F1 calendar, which currently caps at 24 races. The Austrian Grand Prix and Belgium’s Spa-Francorchamps are among those that might rotate or drop out to make space. As the discussions unfold, the future of the F1 schedule looks to be dynamic and full of changes.
Thailand’s ambition to host a Formula 1 race is picking up pace, setting the stage for a potentially thrilling future event.
