Thailand’s cabinet has approved a proposal to host the Formula One World Championship in Bangkok from 2028 to 2032, paving the way for the country to join the elite list of F1 host nations.
The five-year bid, valued at 40 billion baht (approximately $1.2 billion), includes plans to stage a three-day street circuit event annually in the capital’s Chatuchak area, with key sites such as Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Chatuchak Park, and adjacent State Railway of Thailand properties earmarked for the race route.
The decision was announced on Tuesday (17 June) following a cabinet meeting held on 17 June, where officials acknowledged the findings of a feasibility study into the viability of hosting a Formula One race in Thailand. The study evaluated suitable locations, infrastructure needs, and potential economic benefits.
According to government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub, if Thailand secures the contract, it would mark the first time the country has hosted a Formula One race. “In the next 2–3 years, Thailand will have world-class competition, which we never thought would actually happen in Thailand,” he told reporters.
Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirmed the total estimated cost of the bid at around 40 billion baht. The proposed budget will be allocated annually and submitted for cabinet approval each year.
The initiative is part of a wider effort to enhance Thailand’s international profile and strengthen its appeal as a destination for global sporting events. Officials say hosting a Formula One race would support tourism, a key contributor to the Thai economy.
A previous resolution in April 2024 tasked several agencies with exploring the bid. The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) was instructed to conduct a feasibility study and assess the process for acquiring hosting rights. The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) was responsible for reviewing potential locations and required investment, while the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) was directed to develop an urban plan for the designated areas.
The study was completed in coordination with the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Bureau of the Budget, and other relevant bodies. Officials now plan to engage with the Formula One Group to advance the proposal.
Thailand currently has an FIA-accredited racing circuit in Buriram province, which hosts MotoGP events, but the Formula One bid is focused on creating a temporary street circuit in the capital. If successful, Thailand would join Singapore as one of only two Southeast Asian countries to host an F1 Grand Prix.