Formula 1’s expansion into Southeast Asia has gained momentum following recent Thailand F1 Grand Prix talks, with efforts to host a Bangkok street race underway.
The ambitious proposal which was initially championed by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during last year’s Emilia Romagna GP aims to elevate Thailand’s global profile as a tourism and entertainment hub while boosting the local economy.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has now confirmed recent Thailand F1 Grand Prix talks, revealing he held a meeting with new PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to pitch Bangkok as a potential venue for a street circuit race.
The talks which took place ahead of the Australian Grand Prix mark a significant step toward securing Thailand’s place on the F1 calendar potentially as early as 2027.
Domenicali praised the nation’s “impressive plans” following the high-level discussions.
“I was delighted to meet with Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the prime minister of Thailand, and her team today to discuss their impressive plans to host a Bangkok street race,” he said. “I am looking forward to continuing our discussions in the weeks and months ahead.”
The Thailand F1 Grand Prix project aligns with F1’s broader strategy to diversify its calendar, which currently features 24 races. With the Dutch Grand Prix set to exit after 2026 and Belgium adopting a rotational schedule starting in 2028, opportunities exist for new venues.
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Reports have also emerged claiming that F1 is looking for an exciting Asian venue to commit to a long-term, stable, government-guaranteed GP, ideally with a 10-year contract.
“I think the good thing that we were able to do in the last couple of years is focus on the places that we do believe represent the future for Formula 1,” Domenicali told Sky Sports F1 during the Australian Grand Prix weekend.
“We receive a lot of attention from other places in the world. By the way, I’m just finishing the race here in Melbourne, I’m going to Bangkok – there is a potential interest from the government to develop something there.
“We have other places in Europe, and as you know there are interests in Africa, there are interests in South America now.”
While Thailand’s bid faces competition from South Africa, Rwanda, and South Korea, its proximity to existing Asian markets and the presence of Anglo-Thai driver Alex Albon (Williams Racing) bolster its case.
Additionally, the nation hosts MotoGP events at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram which solidifies its status as a regional hub for tourism and entertainment.
While no specific timeframe or detailed plans have been announced, the Thailand F1 Grand Prix organizers have suggested a temporary Bankok street circuit, though reports suggest a permanent track could be built near a former bus station adjacent to Chatuchak Park.
This location offers practical advantages for accommodating large crowds and ensuring smooth logistics.
The proposed route would loop around major traffic thoroughfares such as Vibhavadi Rangsit Road and Kamphaengphet Road, with spectators potentially enjoying views from nearby public parks like Chatuchak Park and Queen Sirikit Park.
The choice of Chatuchak reflects lessons learned from earlier proposals to stage an F1 race on Rattanakosin Island, home to historic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Temple of Dawn.
Concerns about pollution and damage to antiquity sites led planners to prioritize more modern urban areas for the Bankok street race. While Chatuchak may lack iconic cultural landmarks, it offers ample space for infrastructure development and spectator facilities.
While logistical challenges remain—such as traffic management and environmental impact—Thailand’s political commitment and F1’s openness to new markets signal optimism.
Domenicali’s extended tenure through 2029 ensures continuity in negotiations, with Southeast Asia identified as a priority region due to its 386 million-strong F1 fanbase.
