Formula One Expansion: Exploring New Horizons in Thailand

Formula One is on the brink of another exciting chapter as its leadership explores new markets to capitalise on the sport’s soaring global popularity. Stefano Domenicali, the president and chief executive of Formula One, has announced that he will travel to Bangkok following the Australian Grand Prix to discuss the possibility of adding a Thai Grand Prix to the F1 calendar. This move underscores F1’s strategic push to expand its reach into emerging markets and strengthen its presence in Asia. With the sport enjoying unprecedented growth, Domenicali’s visit highlights Thailand’s potential as a prime location for a future race.

Domenicali, who recently extended his contract to lead Formula One until 2029, has been vocal about his vision for the sport’s future. He has emphasized the importance of identifying markets that align with F1’s long-term goals and can contribute to its continued success. While the majority of the 24-race schedule is already locked in for the next few years, there are opportunities for new venues to join the circuit. The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, for instance, is only guaranteed until 2026, and the Belgian Grand Prix has agreed to a flexible deal to make room for new races. These developments have created a window for countries like Thailand to step into the spotlight and host a Formula One event.

The Italian executive made it clear that F1’s focus is on sustainable growth and partnerships that benefit both the sport and its host locations. "The good thing that we were able to do in the last couple of years has been to focus on the places that we believe represent the future for F1," he remarked during an interview with Sky Sports in Melbourne. Domenicali also highlighted the importance of long-term agreements with current promoters, which allow them to invest in infrastructure and enhance the overall fan experience. However, he acknowledged the intense interest from other regions eager to join the F1 family. "After finishing the race here in Melbourne, I go to Bangkok to see if there is a potential interest to develop something there," he added.

Thailand has already shown significant enthusiasm for hosting a Formula One race. Former Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin hosted Domenicali in April last year to discuss the government’s vision for bringing a grand prix to Bangkok. Officials have proposed a street circuit in the historic centre of the capital, which would add a unique and iconic setting to the F1 calendar. The idea aligns with F1’s trend of hosting races in urban locations, such as Singapore and Monaco, which have proven to be highly successful. Despite Bangkok’s notorious traffic challenges, the potential economic and cultural benefits of hosting a grand prix make it an attractive prospect for the Thai government.

Thailand is not the only country vying for a spot on the F1 calendar. Historic hosts like France and Germany, which are currently absent from the 2025 schedule, are working to return to the circuit. Meanwhile, countries like Rwanda are investing in new infrastructure, with plans to build a circuit near the capital Kigali. The Turkish Grand Prix, which last took place in 2021, is also being considered as a potential candidate to fill one of the slots opened by the Belgian Grand Prix deal. These developments reflect the growing demand for Formula One events and the sport’s ambition to become a truly global entity.

As F1 continues to expand its footprint, the addition of a Thai Grand Prix would mark a significant milestone in its push into Southeast Asia. The region already hosts successful races in Australia, China, Japan, and Singapore, and Thailand’s entry could further cement F1’s presence in the Asia-Pacific market. With Domenicali’s visit to Bangkok, the door for Thailand to join the F1 circuit has been opened, offering a thrilling opportunity for fans in the region and beyond. Whether the negotiations lead to a concrete deal remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Formula One’s future is as dynamic and diverse as ever.