Thai cabinet approves $1.2 bln bid to host Formula 1 race in 2028

Thailand is making a big push to bring Formula 1 to its capital, Bangkok, with the cabinet approving a $1.2 billion bid to host a street race starting in 2028. If their bid is successful, Bangkok would host a Grand Prix every year from 2028 through 2032, according to government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub.

This move follows a meeting in March between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali, where a feasibility study for a Bangkok street circuit from 2028 was discussed. The Thai government believes hosting the race will be a significant boost for tourism, a vital part of Thailand’s economy.

Formula 1 already has a packed calendar with 24 races globally, including four in the Asia-Pacific region, like the Singapore Grand Prix in Southeast Asia. While Thailand does have an FIA-accredited track in Buriram (which hosts MotoGP), the current proposal is specifically for an exciting street race right in the heart of Bangkok.