Thai Driver Makes History with FIA F3 Win at Silverstone

Photo via Facebook/ Campos Racing

Thailand is celebrating a historic milestone as Tasanapol “Tern” Inthraphuvasak becomes the first Thai driver to win a round of the FIA Formula 3 Championship. This landmark victory took place at the acclaimed Silverstone Circuit in the UK on Saturday, 5th July.

The announcement drew high praise from Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is currently suspended but also serves as Minister of Culture. She expressed her delight on Facebook, sharing congratulatory messages and photos with the victorious Tern. She wrote, "Congratulations to Tasanapol ‘Tern’ Inthraphuvasak on his historic victory. His perseverance and dedication are truly inspirational to Thai youth."

Tern, a 20-year-old rising star from Campos Racing, is in his second F3 season. Passion for motorsport runs deep in his family, with his father, Vutthikorn Inthraphuvasak, being a former GT racer. Tern began karting in 2013 and quickly progressed through national and Asian circuits before moving to the UK at 14 to pursue his dreams.

His achievements include being runner-up in the 2017 Asian Kart Open Championship and the 2018 IAME Asia Series. By 2019, he competed in Europe and the USA, including the FIA Karting European Championship in the OK-Junior category.

Tern debuted in F3 with PHM AIX Racing in 2024, securing a notable podium finish in Budapest and ending the season 24th overall. Returning to Campos Racing for 2025, he made an indelible mark with his Silverstone triumph.

Reflecting on his journey, Tern credits Thai-British F1 driver Alex Albon as a major inspiration. Tern shared, "My racing hero would have to be Alex Albon. Watching him grow as a driver was really good to watch."

Albon, himself a celebrated racer, won four GP3 Series races in 2016 before it evolved into the current FIA F3 European Championship.

Tern's victory stands as a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it marks a promising future for Thai motorsport. His achievement is not just a personal triumph but a source of pride for Thailand, sparking enthusiasm and hope among aspiring Thai athletes.

In terms of value, the significant win at Silverstone not only elevates Tern's profile but also highlights the Thai presence on the international racing stage. More importantly, it potentially opens doors for other Thai racers to make their mark globally.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-07