JUST IN: F1 confirm 'discussions' over shock NEW grand prix

Formula 1 in Talks for Potential Bangkok Grand Prix

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has confirmed that discussions are underway to bring a new race to the calendar, with Thailand emerging as a strong contender to host a Grand Prix. The possibility of a street race in Bangkok is being explored, marking a significant step in F1’s continued global expansion.

In recent years, the increasing number of races in the F1 season has sparked debates, with the calendar already nearing its agreed-upon limit of 25 races per year. Despite this, the sport continues to attract interest from new locations eager to join the prestigious lineup. Thailand is the latest nation to express a serious desire to host a race, and negotiations are progressing.

Speculation about a potential Thai Grand Prix gained momentum when former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin attended the 2024 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, signaling the country’s intent to become part of the F1 world. Now, those discussions have taken a more concrete turn, with Domenicali recently visiting Thailand ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.

During his visit, the F1 chief met with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, the former owner of Manchester City. The meeting, which was highlighted in a post by F1 Media on the X platform, further solidified Thailand’s ambitions to host a race in its capital.

Domenicali shared his thoughts after the meeting, stating, “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 race in Bangkok. I am looking forward to continuing our discussions in the weeks and months ahead.”

A Bangkok street race would add another exciting urban circuit to the F1 calendar, following in the footsteps of successful city-based races like Monaco, Singapore, and Las Vegas. The concept aligns with F1’s strategy of bringing races closer to fans in major metropolitan areas while expanding into new markets.

Thailand has a rich motorsport culture and has previously hosted MotoGP events at the Buriram International Circuit, demonstrating the country’s capability to organize major racing events. However, a Formula 1 Grand Prix in Bangkok would represent a much larger and more prestigious challenge, requiring extensive planning, infrastructure, and regulatory approvals.

With Domenicali expressing enthusiasm about Thailand’s proposal, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether Bangkok secures a place on the F1 calendar. If successful, it would mark the first time Thailand hosts a Formula 1 race, adding another Southeast Asian destination alongside Singapore and Malaysia, which previously hosted races.

As Formula 1 continues its global expansion, adding a race in Bangkok would further cement its presence in Asia, catering to the sport’s growing fanbase in the region. While no official confirmation has been made, the ongoing discussions indicate that Thailand is making serious strides toward becoming an F1 host nation.