Thailand is preparing a bid to host a Formula One street race in Bangkok in 2028, with the government set to seek cabinet approval for the proposal next week, a senior official said on Monday.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who attended the Monaco Grand Prix over the weekend, is expected to present the concept of a “Sustainable F1,” government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub confirmed.
He added that race organisers had responded positively to the initial pitch.
According to Mr. Jirayu, the official proposal and the results of a feasibility study will be submitted to the cabinet on June 4 for consideration before moving forward.
While detailed plans on the sustainability element have yet to be disclosed, Mr. Jirayu said the proposed Bangkok Grand Prix would prioritise environmental responsibility and aims to attract investment in green technology alongside the motorsport showcase.
Formula One currently has a packed calendar of 24 races worldwide, including four in the Asia-Pacific region. Southeast Asia is already represented by the Singapore Grand Prix, a popular night race on the urban streets of Marina Bay.
Mr. Jirayu noted that bringing Formula One to Thailand would significantly boost the country’s tourism sector, a key pillar of the national economy.
Thailand has experience hosting major motorsport events, including the MotoGP at the FIA-certified Buriram International Circuit in the country’s northeast.
The push to host an F1 race follows earlier talks between Ms. Paetongtarn and Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali in March.
“Thailand sees the opportunity to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix in the future as a key initiative to elevate our profile as a hub for international tourism and global events,” Ms. Paetongtarn said on social media after a meeting with Prince Albert of Monaco during her recent trip.
