Bangkok races ahead: Minister shifts gears for F1 street spectacle

Bangkok might soon be revving its engines as Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, vows to secure a Formula 1 (F1) street race in the capital.

Sorawong is working hard to finalise the deal by the end of this year, after holding talks with Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), the governing body of F1. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is also keen on the event, following an earlier push by former premier Srettha Thavisin.

“F1 is not only about racing. It attracts automotive fans and millionaires from around the world to Thailand.”

Sorawong highlighted the potential to rake in more than 12 billion baht per event and generate “positive vibes” for the nation. The race could be a massive tourism boost, with high-spending visitors flocking to Bangkok.

But it’s not just about where, it’s also about how. The idea of a street race isn’t new, as plans were considered back in 2015 to host the event in the historic Rattanakosin Island area. However, the area’s timber pile foundations proved unsuitable for such high-speed action. Now, a feasibility study is underway to explore new locations across the city, with results expected by December.

Meanwhile, an alternative F1 circuit track is also being designed for U-Tapao in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), with private investors leading the charge. This track, though used only two days a year for racing, could offer a premium experience for visitors year-round.

On a related note, the EEC is also set to host the Mini EEC Fair 2024, aimed at drawing investment into the region’s industries, as Thailand revamps its tourism strategy for the coming year, reported Bangkok Post.

ORIGINAL STORY: Thailand plans Formula One circuit near U-Tapao airport by 2028

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced plans to construct a Formula One racing circuit near U-Tapao Airport in Rayong province within the next three to four years. The prime minister shared this vision after meeting with Formula One Group executives in Milan yesterday.

The 62 year old prime minister emphasised the importance of international sporting events for boosting tourism, expressing the government’s intention for Thailand to host the F1 World Championship. Accompanying him at the meeting were Chatchai Phromlert, chairman of PTT Plc, and Kavin Kanjanapas, president of BTS Group Holdings Plc.

PM Srettha explained that PTT is expected to sponsor the construction of the new circuit, while BTS Group Holdings manages the expansive U-Tapao airport compound. The prime minister noted that the delegation received a favourable response from the F1 Group.

“I believe that we and the organisers both want this to happen. I am confident that there will be good news in a few months.”

The proposed circuit aims to host not only F1 and F2 races but also events for young racers. Although specific details have yet to be finalised, the government plans to begin construction of the circuit by 2027 or 2028 at the latest, according to the prime minister.

During his visit to Italy, the Bangkok-born Srettha also toured the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari F1 circuit in Imola, east of Bologna, to gather insights and inspiration for the future Thai circuit, reported Bangkok Post.