Thailand Unveils Proposed F1 Street Circuit for Bangkok Grand Prix
Thailand has unveiled a $1.9 billion plan for a 5.7-kilometer, 18-corner F1 street circuit in Bangkok, aiming to host a Grand Prix from 2028. Backed by government investment, the track would weave through the city's heart, passing landmarks like Chatuchak Market. This ambitious project seeks to establish Thailand as a key F1 destination in Asia, fostering motorsport growth and potentially joining the calendar as other European races rotate or exit.
Thailand has revealed detailed plans for a 5.7-kilometer, 18-corner street circuit in Bangkok, aiming to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix from 2028. The ambitious $1.9 billion project, backed by significant government investment, seeks to bring F1 to the heart of the city, passing iconic landmarks, and positioning Thailand as a new hub for motorsport in Asia.
Why it matters:
Bringing Formula 1 to Bangkok would mark a significant expansion of the sport's global footprint, particularly in Southeast Asia. This move aligns with F1's strategy to feature more urban street races, mirroring recent additions like Miami and Las Vegas, and could provide a massive boost to Thailand's tourism and sporting profile. For the country, it represents an opportunity to inspire a new generation into motorsport, as highlighted by Thai-British F1 driver Alex Albon.
The Details:
- Circuit Design: The proposed 5.7-kilometer clockwise street circuit features 18 corners, placing it as the eighth-longest track on the current F1 calendar, between Monza and the Circuit of the Americas.
- Location: The track would weave through Bangkok's Chatuchak district, passing notable landmarks such as Chatuchak Market, Queen Sirikit Park, and the new Krungthep Aphiwat station.
- Investment and Timeline: The Thai government has approved a substantial $1.3 billion USD ($1.9 billion AUD) investment. Construction is anticipated to take one to two years, with the target for the first race being either March or September 2028.
- Deal Duration: Thailand is proposing a five-year deal to host the Grand Prix, running from 2028 to 2032.
- Local Support: Thai F1 driver Alex Albon has been actively involved in discussions, emphasizing the potential for motorsport growth and inspiration among the younger generation in Thailand.
The Big Picture:
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali's visit to Thailand in March 2025 underscores the serious consideration of Bangkok as a future race venue. While the calendar currently holds 24 races – Domenicali's preferred number – regulations allow for up to 25. Thailand's potential inclusion from 2028 suggests upcoming shifts, with the Dutch Grand Prix expected to exit after 2026 and Barcelona potentially moving to an alternating schedule. This would place the Thai Grand Prix among other fly-away events in the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, Singapore, China, and Japan, further solidifying F1's presence in key international markets.
What's Next:
With government backing and a detailed proposal, the focus now shifts to final approvals and the commencement of construction. If the project progresses as planned, Bangkok could soon join the exclusive list of F1 host cities, creating a vibrant new spectacle for fans and a significant platform for motorsport development in Thailand. The coming years will reveal how F1 manages its expanding calendar and integrates new venues while maintaining its global balance.