Formula 1’s Potential Expansion with Thai Grand Prix Discussions in Bangkok
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1 Group, will visit Thailand to discuss a potential grand prix in Bangkok. The 2025 F1 calendar is the most extensive to date, with 24 races. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has shown interest in bringing F1 to Thailand, aligning with the country’s goal to increase its global visibility. The possibility of rotational races aims to facilitate F1’s entry into new markets.
Thailand has long expressed a desire to host a Formula 1 grand prix, with discussions advancing as Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali prepares for talks in Bangkok following the Australian Grand Prix. The F1 calendar for the 2025 season is unprecedentedly full, featuring 24 races, largely fueled by the sport’s burgeoning popularity, which has prompted new host interest from various locations.
Among the emerging venues is the newly proposed Madrid circuit, while the Belgian Grand Prix has transitioned to a rotational hosting agreement. Recent announcements confirm Domenicali’s five-year extension as the president and CEO of Formula One Management, a role he has held since 2021. Under his leadership, a pivotal goal is to introduce Formula 1 to new markets.
Domenicali noted, “I think that the good thing that we were able to do in the last couple of years is to focus on the places that we do believe represent the future for Formula 1.” His forthcoming meetings in Bangkok are aimed at exploring the Thai government’s interest in establishing an F1 race.
Talks about a potential street race in Bangkok gained momentum last year when Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin attended the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix and shared details of his discussions with Domenicali. He stated, “In line with the Thai Government’s intention to bring F1 racing to Thailand in the near future, I visited the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari and had a discussion with executives of the Formula One Group.”
In Africa, Rwanda aims to reinstate F1, post its hosting of the 2024 FIA Gala, despite opposition from Congo representatives due to ongoing regional conflict. Additionally, Domenicali has hinted at the potential reinstatement of Argentina to the F1 calendar, thus expanding its global reach.
As the 2025 season opener approaches, McLaren CEO Zak Brown opined on the status of the F1 calendar, suggesting that while it may have reached a limit of 24 races, there is potential for growth through rotational events. He remarked, “Some things have peaked, 24 races. We can’t do more… maybe have a fixed 20 races and eight that rotate every other year. This is a way to get into 28 markets but maintain a 24-race calendar.”
In summary, the pursuit of a Formula 1 grand prix in Thailand is advancing, with CEO Stefano Domenicali set to engage in discussions aimed at establishing this new venue. Amidst a record 2025 F1 calendar, the sport’s global expansion remains a priority. The potential for a Bangkok street race reflects Thailand’s strategic initiative to enhance its international presence, while the conversation around rotational races indicates a thoughtful approach to accommodating new circuits without overwhelming the current schedule.
Original Source: au.motorsport.com
