Hosting a Grand Prix has never been more appealing. With the rising popularity of Formula 1, interest in hosting a national race is skyrocketing. Emerging markets are eager to showcase their countries through a national Grand Prix. Thailand is the latest in a long list of contenders lobbying for a spot on the calendar. Could F1 be heading to Bangkok?
The Thai Prime Minister posted this week that he had a productive meeting with Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1. A key agenda item was the organization of a Grand Prix in the East Asian country. Thailand has the Buriram International Circuit, a track that meets the requirements of Formula 1. However, it is rumored that the preference is for an F1 race through the streets of the capital, Bangkok.
“I had a good discussion with Stefano Domenicali,” says Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. “We were able to discuss the possibilities for Thailand to organize a street race in the future. I hope we have shown our potential to participate in the championship. The Thai government is ready to contribute to this.”
Bangkok is not the only party interested in hosting a Grand Prix. While traditional locations such as Hockenheim, Barcelona, and Istanbul are striving to return to the calendar, plans are being made in Korea, China, and Saudi Arabia for even more new F1 circuits.
