Thailand has taken a major step toward hosting its first-ever Formula One Grand Prix, with the country’s cabinet approving a $1.2 billion bid to bring the sport to Bangkok starting in 2028.
The proposal outlines plans for a street race in the heart of the capital, which would run for an initial five-year period through 2032. Government officials hailed the move as a transformative moment for Thai sport and tourism, signalling the country’s ambition to join the global motorsport elite.
The green light from the cabinet follows a high-level meeting earlier this year between the Thai Prime Minister and Formula One executives, where discussions centred on the feasibility of staging a city-centre race that could rival iconic venues such as Singapore and Monaco.
Currently, Thailand hosts MotoGP races at the FIA-approved track in Buriram, but the Bangkok Grand Prix would represent a first for Formula One in the nation, and only the fourth race in the Asia-Pacific region alongside Japan, Australia and Singapore.
The government views the event as a major opportunity to boost tourism and strengthen Thailand’s international profile. With Formula One’s calendar growing more global and competitive, securing a race from 2028 could position Thailand at the centre of the region’s sporting and entertainment landscape.
If approved by Formula One’s governing bodies, the Bangkok Grand Prix would join an increasingly crowded schedule and potentially fill a slot left by rotating or departing races. The economic benefits are expected to be significant, both in terms of global exposure and direct financial returns from visitors, sponsors and media rights.
Thailand is now waiting on a formal response from Formula One, but with funding secured and political will behind the project, the country looks ready to make its long-anticipated leap onto the F1 stage.
