Thailand bids to host F1 race
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E-mail CNTV, August 24, 2012
Thailand is bidding to host its own Formula One Grand Prix motor race. The country is in discussions with the sport's organisers, and is considering building a brand-new circuit. If successful, it would join China, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan in staging grand prix events in Asia.
A formula one grand prix car powers around the streets of Bangkok.
This is just a demonstration event, but there are many who are trying to bring a grand prix race to Thailand.
Those behind the bid hope it could happen as early as 2014.
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Thailand is bidding to host its own Formula One Grand Prix motor race. |
If successful it would almost certainly be held under lights at night – to accommodate TV audiences in Europe and bring in more money in sponsorship.
Those in favour of the plan have been encouraged by Thailand successfully bidding to stage the end-of-season Race of Champions. It'll be held at this sports stadium in Bangkok in December, bringing together drivers from formula one, Le Mans and the world of rallying.
Reigning F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel is confirmed to attend – along with many other top drivers.
Sontaya khunpleum, Royal Automobile ASSOC. Of Thailand said, "It shows that Thailand is determined and ready to host a grand prix when we are already hosting the Race of Champions this year. "
The Thai ministry of tourism is hoping to tempt grand prix to the country, by proposing the construction of a three million US dollar, purpose-built formula one circuit at Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. The circuit would accommodate around 100,000 spectators.
Officials have already been in discussions with Formula One president Bernie Ecclestone, which they say have gone smoothly.
Martin Lowe, Chiang Mai said, "One plan would be to use land here, on the outskirts. The ministry says there's plenty of readily-available space to build the track, grandstands and car parks. There are good air and road connections in Chiang Mai, and this is well clear of where people live. "
For many, Chiang Mai is the preferred venue - but also under consideration is a scheme to improve an existing track at the seaside town of Pattaya.
Another faction says the capital Bangkok is the natural choice – its Thailand's biggest city, has its largest airport and is already an internationally-favoured tourist destination.
Sontaya Khunpleum, Royal Automobile ASSOC. Of Thailand said, "If we can host grand prix or formula one it shows that we are ready to be acknowledged by F1's organisers and will raise the profile of our motor sports. "
The Red Bull formula one team – which staged this demonstration – has strong links to Thailand. The energy drink was invented here and many see Red Bull as the national team.
Red Bull may be willing to part sponsor a Thai grand prix – which in total would cost around 150 million US dollars to stage.
Those backing the scheme say Thailand could soon join Malaysia, Singapore and Japan, as a venue for an Asian grand prix.
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