Progress in Plans for Formula 1 Race in Thailand as Domenicali Visits Bangkok

Formula 1 is progressing discussions to potentially host a grand prix in Thailand. CEO Stefano Domenicali plans to visit Bangkok post-Australia GP to explore opportunities. The 2025 calendar features 24 races, with a mix of new host cities seeking inclusion. The Thai government shows support, aligning with efforts to elevate Thailand’s international profile in motorsports.

Thailand has shown a longstanding interest in hosting a Formula 1 grand prix. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has announced his upcoming visit to Thailand after the Australian Grand Prix to discuss potential race opportunities in Bangkok. As the F1 calendar expands to 24 races in the 2025 season, new host cities are vying for inclusion in future years.

Recent developments include the addition of the Madrid circuit for the next season, and Belgium has agreed to host races on a rotational basis, providing openings for other circuits. On Wednesday, it was confirmed that Domenicali will continue as the president and CEO of Formula One Management for another five years, emphasizing the importance of entering new markets during this tenure.

Domenicali expressed, “I think that the good thing that we were able to do in the last couple of years is to focus on the places that we do believe represent the future for Formula 1.” Potential markets under consideration include various regions in Europe, Africa, and South America. Conversations about a Bangkok street race gained traction last year following Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s attendance at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where he engaged in discussions with Domenicali.

The Thai Prime Minister commented on efforts to make Thailand a scheduled venue for F1 events, stating that these plans align with government policies aimed at raising Thailand’s profile for international events. Additionally, Rwanda has expressed ambitions to secure an F1 return to Africa, but conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo have prompted concerns. Furthermore, Domenicali hinted at the possible revival of Argentina in the F1 calendar as it last hosted a race in 1998.

McLaren CEO Zak Brown praised the concept of rotational races while maintaining that the current total of 24 has likely hit a ceiling. He stated, “I don’t think it has hit its peak, which is quite exciting,” suggesting a proposal for a fixed calendar of 20 races with eight rotating events to explore new markets while keeping the schedule manageable.

The pursuit of a Formula 1 race in Thailand marks an exciting development in the sport’s expansion efforts. With Stefano Domenicali’s leadership, the Formula 1 organization is actively exploring new venues and partnerships to enhance the global appeal of the series. As both traditional and emerging markets express interest, the potential for a street race in Bangkok could significantly elevate Thailand’s status in the motorsport landscape. Careful consideration of race rotations may provide additional avenues for growth without overwhelming the current schedule.

Original Source: www.autosport.com