Bangkok is getting closer than ever to hosting the first-ever Formula 1 Thai Grand Prix. Details of the proposal are now in the hands of F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali
It’s not just Bangkok. Stefano Domenicali’s desk — as the head of Formula 1 — is currently piled high with paperwork. Key issues include future race calendars, the concept of circuit rotation, and expanding the brand’s commercial reach in Asia and the Americas. While we continue to support the return of Imola, hopes are that the Emilia-Romagna race remains part of F1’s future. Meanwhile, a new contender has emerged: a potential Grand Prix in Thailand.
In recent hours, significant confirmation has come from Bangkok. According to reports from Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta dello Sport, the Thai Ministry of the Interior stated: ” The Prime Minister met with Stefano Domenicali during the Monaco GP to discuss the possibility of hosting a race in Thailand. The PM emphasized Formula 1’s global audience of 600 million viewers and the potential economic boost through tourism and infrastructure investment “.
Thailand Close to the Finish Line — But What About the Others? Albania, Korea, Argentina…
The push to host a Grand Prix in 2028 is gaining strong momentum in Southeast Asia. It’s worth noting that talks have been ongoing for quite some time, and Thailand’s longstanding partnerships with MotoGP and Superbike further enhance Bangkok’s chances. Motorsport is already deeply rooted in the country’s sporting identity.
The already packed list of venues vying for a spot on Domenicali’s calendar continues to grow: Thailand, South Korea, Albania (which also seems very close, according to Albanian PM Edi Rama), South Africa, Rwanda, Argentina, and potentially Morocco.
While Thailand and Albania appear to be in advanced stages for a 2028 debut (Tirana is aiming for a slot between 2028 and 2030), South Korea and Argentina remain more speculative. If Hyundai succeeded in entering F1 as the 11th team — which did not materialize — Seoul’s chances would have improved significantly. As for Argentina, it remains a concept rather than an active project.
The Situation in Africa: Is Morocco Overtaking Rwanda and South Africa?
Africa presents a more delicate scenario. Both Formula 1 and Domenicali are keen on returning to the continent, but the path is far from straightforward. The only formal agreement so far is with Rwanda — a nation currently facing severe economic and political challenges. South Africa remains F1’s “Plan B,” though a return to Kyalami now appears unlikely. If anything, a new urban street race, possibly in Cape Town, could be on the cards.
In recent hours, Morocco has emerged as a serious player. Like South Africa, it has previously hosted a Grand Prix and, according to multiple sources, is preparing a record-breaking $1.2 billion contract to bring Formula 1 to Tangier.
Photo: F1, DucatiCorse