Thailand Seeks Private Sector Involvement to Boost MotoGP Event

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The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is in talks to extend the contract for hosting MotoGP races in the country. As these discussions progress, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is advocating for greater involvement from the private sector to enhance the event's success and reduce government expenses, as reported by Amarin TV on April 11.

Held at the Chang International Circuit near Buriram, the Thailand MotoGP launched in 2018. While the races were paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, they are scheduled to continue until at least 2026. Minister Sorawong highlighted the potential financial and popularity benefits that private sector participation could bring, emphasizing that this move is strictly about bolstering the sport and not linked to political agendas.

Newin Chidchob, president of Buriram United Football Club, supports this viewpoint, noting the significant income MotoGP generates for Thailand. Sorawong confirmed ongoing negotiations to extend the MotoGP licence and address a proposed 5% fee increase.

He also mentioned that recent considerations to involve the private sector are unrelated to postponed government legislation on opening casinos in entertainment complexes, which faced opposition. Meanwhile, on the topic of hosting Formula 1 racing in Thailand, Sorawong revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is being drafted, with studies focusing on the feasibility of a street circuit. The government is targeting 2028 to host the event.

These steps underscore Thailand's commitment to enhancing its global sporting profile through strategic private partnerships, aiming to leverage the economic and spectator appeal of world-class motorsport events like MotoGP and potentially Formula 1, reported Thai News Room.