Progress on Formula 1 Race Plans in Thailand as Domenicali Heads for Talks
Stefano Domenicali is set to discuss potential F1 racing in Bangkok following the Australian GP, reflecting Thailand’s long-term interest in hosting a grand prix. The ongoing expansion of F1 into new markets is a key focus for Domenicali, with rotational race agreements being considered to accommodate fresh venues. The global fascination with F1 is evident as new locations like Madrid and Argentina seek to join the racing calendar.
Thailand has expressed sustained interest in hosting a Formula 1 grand prix, and discussions are set to continue next week. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali will travel to Thailand following the Australian Grand Prix to negotiate a potential race in Bangkok, highlighting the growing global interest in the sport. The 2025 F1 calendar features a record 24 grands prix, increasing competition for new venues.
As the interest in Formula 1 expands, new potential race locations are emerging. The Madrid Ring is anticipated to join the calendar for next season, while the Belgian Grand Prix has established a rotational hosting agreement to allow new tracks space in the schedule. Domenicali’s recent announcement of his ongoing tenure as president and CEO of Formula One Management aims to focus on expanding F1 into new markets over the next five years.
Domenicali stated, “We receive a lot of attention from other places in the world. I’m just finishing the race here in Melbourne, I go to Bangkok to see if there is a potential interest from the government to develop something there.” This sentiment aligns with the Thai government’s aspirations to elevate Thailand’s prominence in international events and activities through the introduction of Formula 1 races.
The talks are further supported by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s previous visit to the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where he discussed F1 prospects with executives from the Formula One Group. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions around potential F1 races in Africa and South America, areas that express interest in hosting grand prix events.
At last year’s United States Grand Prix, speculation surfaced about Argentina returning to the F1 calendar after its last race in 1998. Meanwhile, McLaren CEO Zak Brown suggested that while 24 races may be the maximum capacity, there are opportunities for growth through a combination of fixed and rotational races. He proposed having a core 20 races complemented by rotating eight others every alternate year, thereby expanding F1’s global footprint while managing logistical challenges.
Formula 1 is in the process of expanding its global reach, with Thailand’s interest in hosting a grand prix intensifying. Stefano Domenicali’s discussions in Bangkok aim to explore this potential, amid a crowded calendar of 24 races planned for 2025. The possibilities of introducing rotational races could offer further avenues for expansion in various regions, including Africa and South America, as interest in the sport grows worldwide.
Original Source: www.autosport.com
