Formula 1 Considers Bangkok as Potential Race Destination

Stefano Domenicali of Formula One will visit Thailand to discuss the potential staging of a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Bangkok. Concurrently, the 2025 F1 calendar is poised to become the busiest with 24 races. The possibility of including Thailand aligns with global efforts to grow the sport and engage new markets.

Thailand is displaying a keen interest in hosting a Formula 1 Grand Prix, with conversations anticipated to continue in the upcoming week. Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula One Group, is scheduled to visit Thailand for discussions regarding this potential race following the Australian Grand Prix.

The 2025 F1 calendar is expected to be the busiest yet, featuring 24 Grand Prix events. This heightened interest in the sport has attracted various host cities. Madrid’s Madring has been added for the next season, and the Belgian Grand Prix has secured a rotational agreement, allowing new tracks to emerge.

Recently, it was confirmed that Domenicali will maintain his role as president and CEO of Formula One Management for at least five more years after his 2021 appointment. During this period, expanding F1 into new markets will be a critical objective. “By the way, I’m just finishing the race here in Melbourne, I go to Bangkok to see – there is a potential interest from the government to develop something there,” he remarked on his plans.

The concept of a street race in Bangkok has been in discussion for some time. Last year, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin attended the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where he and Domenicali reportedly discussed bringing F1 to Thailand. He expressed this ambition, stating that it aligns with the government’s goal to position Thailand prominently on the global stage for international events.

Meanwhile, Rwanda has expressed interest in reviving F1 in Africa, although there are challenges due to ongoing conflicts in the region. Additionally, Domenicali has indicated that Argentina may also return to the calendar, having last hosted a race in 1998.

As the 2025 season opener approaches, some industry leaders are contemplating the feasibility of rotational races. McLaren CEO Zak Brown remarked on this topic, suggesting that F1 might benefit from a strategy of 20 fixed races complemented by eight rotating events to ensure growth without exceeding current capacity.

In summary, the potential for a Formula 1 race in Thailand is advancing, with significant discussions between government officials and F1 executives. The 2025 season is set to be historically busy, prompting considerations to expand into new markets while maintaining a manageable race calendar. Italy’s potential influence, Rwanda’s ambitions for Africa, and historical sentiments from Argentina underscore the global interest in F1 expansion.

Original Source: au.motorsport.com