Thai driver Alex Albon met with Prime Minister Shinawatra to discuss a potential Formula 1 race in Thailand. This follows prior discussions by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin with F1 officials. The interest for a Thai Grand Prix reflects a broader trend of various nations vying for inclusion in the limited F1 calendar, which has led to discussions of rotational races to accommodate new venues.
The prospects for a Formula 1 race in Thailand have gained traction recently, particularly with Thai driver Alex Albon endorsing the plans. Albon recently met with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking a significant step in bolstering the initiative for a Thailand Grand Prix. Previous discussions have been held, notably between the former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
Thailand has long sought a position on the F1 calendar, and meetings have intensified discussions about hosting a grand prix in Bangkok. Albon, who races for Williams under the Thai flag, emphasized the importance of his representation in F1 and the enthusiasm surrounding a potential race. The competition for race slots remains high, as various nations express interest in joining the existing 24-race calendar.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted ongoing interest from multiple regions while assuring that the 24-race cap will not be exceeded. He remarked on the increasing appeal of F1 across different locations, including South America and Africa. This reflects a broader strategy of focusing on future host cities, aiming to expand the series’ global footprint.
Moreover, McLaren CEO Zak Brown shared insights regarding the calendar, suggesting rotational races could be a solution to facilitate entry into new markets without surpassing the established race limit. The Belgian Grand Prix is a pioneering instance of a rotational contract, allowing for continued engagement with F1 while ensuring scheduling flexibility.
In summary, the prospect of a Formula 1 race in Thailand is increasingly viable, aided by the significant backing of driver Alex Albon and discussions with government officials. With interest from various countries to join the F1 calendar and innovative calendar management strategies being explored, Thailand’s potential inclusion remains an exciting possibility for the F1 community.
Original Source: www.motorsport.com
