Next week, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is set to visit Bangkok, signaling a significant push towards bringing a race to Thailand. Word on the track is that a team from the Chatuchak area’s race organizing committee is currently soaking in the atmosphere at the Australian Grand Prix in Albert Park. Their mission? To learn firsthand about the logistics of hosting such a massive event. They’ve got their sights set on a layout featuring city streets and park scenery, mirroring what they’ve previously observed at the Singapore Grand Prix.
Right now, the opportunity to host a race in Thailand is looking like the front-runner among new venue contenders. Formula 1 is exploring the idea of race rotations, with the Belgian Grand Prix already set to alternate years starting in 2027. A similar approach might also be adopted for races in Barcelona and Imola.
Interest in an African race had been gaining traction, particularly in Rwanda. However, recent conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo have led to a slowdown in these efforts. The feasibility of constructing a new F1 circuit in the region remains questionable, raising concerns about its completion timeline.
South Africa has also been floated as a potential return location using the Kyalami circuit, though a concrete plan has yet to materialize. Meanwhile, former hosts like Turkey at Istanbul Park and Malaysia at Sepang have shown interest in reclaiming their spots on the calendar. Still, sources suggest that these aren’t as promising as the Thai endeavor.
Domenicali’s upcoming trip to review the Chatuchak proposal offers a 50/50 chance of moving forward with a deal. This visit will wedged between the Melbourne and China races, could be a pivotal moment for Thailand’s F1 aspirations.
McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown expressed his support for expanding the race calendar with new events, as long as it doesn’t exceed the current cap of 24 rounds through a rotational system. “We’ve maxed out with 24 races,” Brown admitted. “The idea of having 20 fixed races and 8 rotating could let us tap into 28 markets while still sticking to the 24-race calendar. It’s a demanding schedule, but this approach would help sustain growth for the sport.”
