Cover image via Thailand is preparing to bid to host a Formula One Grand Prix in 2028, with plans for a street race in the capital city of Bangkok, according to a government official
Image via Reuters/The Bangkok Post
According to Reuters, government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub said on Monday, 26 May, that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently met with Formula 1 officials during the Monaco Grand Prix over the weekend.
The discussions were reportedly well-received by race organisers.
A bid, along with a feasibility proposal, is expected to be submitted to the Thai cabinet for approval next Wednesday, 4 June.
Talks about bringing Formula 1 to Thailand have been ongoing for over a year
Jirayu said the Thai government is considering a "sustainable" approach to the event, aiming to attract investments in green technology alongside motorsport.
The spokesperson added that the race could potentially bring in as much as USD600 million (approximately RM2.54 billion) in economic benefits to the country, reported AFP.
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra speaks to Alex Albon, a Thai-British driver who competes under the Thai flag in Formula One for Williams at the Monaco Grand Prix on 24 May.
Image via Ing Shinawatra (Facebook)
Paetongtarn is said to be actively pursuing the project, holding several meetings with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, including during her recent visit to Monte Carlo — the iconic home of F1's most renowned street circuit
"Thailand sees the opportunity to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the future as a key initiative to elevate our profile as a hub for international tourism and global events," Paetongtarn shared on social media after the Monaco race.
The proposal has already received a warm welcome from Thai-British F1 driver Alex Albon, who drives for Williams, saying Thailand is taking the bid "very seriously" and had come up with strong plans.
Formula One currently has a packed calendar with 24 races worldwide, with one already in Southeast Asia — the Singapore Grand Prix, which is regarded as the toughest race of the season due to its narrow streets and extreme heat and humidity.
