Formula 1 and Thailand: A Growing Relationship

The possibility of a Formula 1 race in the vibrant city of Bangkok is gaining momentum, with Williams driver Alex Albon being the latest figure from the series to engage in discussions with Thailand’s prime minister.

Stepping Up the Process

The prospect of a grand prix around the bustling streets of Bangkok has been under consideration for some time. However, the process took a significant leap forward last month when F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali held constructive talks with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Thailand has long coveted a spot on the Formula 1 calendar, and previous prime minister Srettha Thavisin even attended the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix last year to initiate preliminary discussions with Domenicali.

A Successful Conversation

Ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix, Albon, a Thai-British driver racing under the Thai flag, has also had a successful conversation with current prime minister Shinawatra regarding a potential future grand prix and representing Thailand in Formula 1.

The Race for a Place on the Calendar

Thailand is one of several countries vying for a place on the already packed 24-race calendar, with a return to Argentina and a new race in Africa also suggested by Domenicali at various points during last season.

Last year, the former Ferrari boss told ESPN that “more than 35” venues had expressed an interest in hosting F1, but insisted the 24-race cap would remain. McLaren CEO Zak Brown recently praised the idea of adding rotational races, but believes the calendar has reached its limit.

Asked if F1 had reached its peak, Brown replied: “I don’t think it has hit its peak, which is quite exciting.” He suggested a potential solution could be to maintain a 24-race calendar while introducing eight rotational races every other year, thereby expanding the sport into more markets.

The Rotational Model

The Belgian Grand Prix became the first to sign a rotational contract with F1, agreeing to stage a round of the championship until 2031 but with races not taking place in 2029 or 2030. This model could potentially pave the way for more countries to host Formula 1 races.