Report Thailand's Grand Ambition: Hosting F1 with 40 Billion Baht Plan

[snoop1130]

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Thailand is racing towards a new ambition: hosting a Formula One (F1) Grand Prix by 2028, backed by a substantial 40 billion baht investment. Announced by Tourism and Sports Minister Surawong Thienthong on June 17, the nation’s Cabinet has given the green light to this high-octane initiative aimed at transforming Thailand into a world-class sporting destination.

 

Surawong revealed that a specialised working group will be established to delve into logistics and feasibility over the coming years. This project is anticipated to significantly boost international tourism and enhance Thailand's global sporting reputation.

 

"The Cabinet has approved Thailand's proposal to host a Formula One race, allocating a 40 billion baht budget to study the logistics," Surawong declared at Government House.

 

For years, Thailand has flirted with the idea of hosting a Grand Prix, exploring options like Bangkok street circuits and securing partnerships with international investors. As Singapore has enthralled F1 enthusiasts with its dazzling night race since 2008, Thailand is now poised to create its own spectacle on the F1 calendar.

 

If successful, the Thai Grand Prix would join legendary races in Monaco, Silverstone, and Suzuka, becoming a prestigious stop that attracts mega-events and affluent tourists. This aligns with Thailand's broader economic strategy, which includes opening registration for the "We Travel Together" scheme and discussing a 157 billion baht stimulus package on June 18.

 

Thailand’s F1 aspiration is about more than just motorsport. It’s a strategic move to rebrand the nation as a global hub for sport, entertainment, and high-profile tourism. With engines potentially revving by 2028, Thailand could soon race onto the world stage, boosting its status and economy significantly.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-17

 

 

[SABloke]

44 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

allocating a 40 billion baht budget to study the logistics

 

Surely, this has to be a typo. There is no way a feasability study would cost over 1 Billion USD. 🤨

[Quentin Zen]

money well spent.  I hope next year 80 billion, then 300 billion.   In America, they spent 2 trillion to race around homeless people in SF.  Wow, amazing.   I was there and hurt my toe.   Hospital bill only 49 million.  I got super lucky.    Remember, as long as this helps one person it's worth it.  

[Briggsy]

They have been targetting this for over 20 years.