Thailand’s US$1.2 billion bid, if successful, will see Bangkok becoming the second Southeast Asian city, after Singapore, to host a Formula 1 race. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Michael Cola
Thailand’s Cabinet has approved a landmark bid worth US$1.2 billion to host a Formula 1 street race in Bangkok, with the first race targeted for 2028.
If successful, the Thai capital will secure a five-year contract to stage an annual Grand Prix from 2028 to 2032. This would make Bangkok the second Southeast Asian city, after Singapore, to host a Formula 1 race, and further deepen the region’s role in the global motorsports circuit. F1 currently features 24 races worldwide, with four in the Asia-Pacific region.
The approval follows Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s March meeting with Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, during which the government commissioned a feasibility study on hosting the race in Bangkok.
Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirmed the bid’s value at approximately 40 billion baht (US$1.23 billion), with the government positioning the event as a catalyst for boosting international tourism – a key pillar of Thailand’s economy.
Although Thailand already boasts a world-class, FIA-certified circuit in Buriram, which hosts MotoGP events, the current proposal calls for a city-based street race. This aligns with Formula 1’s growing preference for urban circuits, seen in destinations like Singapore, Las Vegas, and Monaco.
The proposed 5.7-kilometre circuit would span prominent Bangkok landmarks, starting from Chatuchak Park to the main train station. It would encompass roughly 3,000 rai (480 hectares) of space, including Mo Chit 2 bus terminal, Chatuchak Market, Queen Sirikit Park, and land behind the PTT Plc headquarters. The surrounding area would be close