A Step Forward for Formula 1: Alex Albon Advocates for Thailand Grand Prix

Thai driver Alex Albon met with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to advocate for a Thailand Grand Prix. This follows positive discussions between Shinawatra and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, highlighting Thailand’s interest in joining the F1 calendar. The ongoing global demand for new venues suggests potential changes in race scheduling, including rotational races.

The possibility of a Thailand Grand Prix has gained momentum, with Thai driver Alex Albon advocating for the event. Recently, Albon met with Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, enhancing the prospects of hosting a Formula 1 race in Bangkok. This conversation follows positive discussions held last month between Prime Minister Shinawatra and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.

For some time, Thailand has expressed its desire to secure a spot on the F1 calendar. Previous Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin attended the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix last year to initiate talks with Domenicali. Albon, a Thai-British driver representing Thailand, engaged in fruitful discussions regarding the potential for a grand prix and the representation of his nation in Formula 1.

Thailand is competing with several countries to earn a spot on the packed 24-race calendar, with prospective venues including Argentina and a new race in Africa mentioned by Domenicali. He noted, “I think the good thing that we were able to do in the last couple of years is focus on the places that we do believe represent the future for Formula 1.”

Domenicali also acknowledged the global attention F1 receives: “There is a potential interest from the government to develop something there.” He emphasized there are many regions interested in hosting races, including Europe, Africa, and South America.

Former Ferrari chief Domenicali indicated that over 35 venues have expressed interest in hosting F1, but noted the cap of 24 races will remain in effect. McLaren CEO Zak Brown discussed the notion of introducing rotational races, suggesting there could be a fixed schedule of 20 races with 8 rotating annually. Brown stated, “I don’t think [F1] has hit its peak,” affirming the notion that the roster can still expand under a rotational system to encompass more markets while maintaining the current race limit.

The Belgian Grand Prix has already adopted a rotational agreement with F1, ensuring it will stage events until 2031, albeit with certain years without races.

In conclusion, Alex Albon’s meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra signifies a pivotal step toward the potential inclusion of a Thailand Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar. As interest grows globally for new venues while maintaining the 24-race limit, the conversation around rotational races presents an opportunity for expansion while enhancing the sport’s appeal in various regions.

Original Source: www.autosport.com