Thai Grand Prix to be held in Bangkok as early as 2014

Once again it has been announced that Thailand is eager to host a Formula 1 race as early as 2014, with a proposed circuit around the streets of Bangkok under floodlights similar to the Singapore Grand Prix. However, the all-important race fee between the proposed race organizers and Bernie Ecclestone has yet to be confirmed.

Plans for Thailand to host a Grand Prix have been floating around the paddock for several years now, however plans for a night race around the streets of Bangkok look set to go ahead as Formula 1 continues its endeavor away from its European roots, to more lucrative Asian markets. After a senior government official and representatives from Red Bull met with Mr. Ecclestone at Singapore, it seems plans for the race have been completed with only the race fee yet to be determined.

"It will be a city race like in Singapore and Monaco.” Explained Kanokphand Chulakasem, governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT). “It will be a night race like the Singapore Grand Prix.”

Although the race is far from confirmed, with important aspects such as the race fee yet to be agreed, it has come to light that the Thai government will fund 60% of the total cost of the race, whereas the remaining 40% will come from sponsors such as Red Bull and Singha. With 20 races planned for the 2014 season, including new venues at New Jersey in America and Sochi in Russia, the question now is which race will make way for the introduction of Thailand to the F1 calendar?

Naturally, any plans for a Thai Grand Prix cannot proceed without the race fee being decided. Until such time, a race around the streets of Bangkok will forever remain speculation, however it’s unquestionable that Mr. Ecclestone and the proposed race organizers finally seem determined to bring one of the fastest sports in the world to Thailand.

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