Thailand close to an agreement to host a Grand Prix in 2014

While some countries, such as Australia, are considering renewing their contracts to keep their place on the F1 calendar, others are trying to join. In recent months, Argentina and Mexico have often been mentioned as potential candidates to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. Today, another name is seriously added to this list of contenders: Thailand.

Discussions have been taking place for several months now and, according to the Autosport website, the country is now close to entering the small world of Formula 1 by 2014. A representative of the Thai government reveals that he has spoken with Bernie Ecclestone and a representative of Red Bull, who would sponsor the event, on the occasion of the race held in Singapore.

The circuit would be an urban track in the streets of Bangkok, the country’s capital, and the event would be held at night just like in Singapore. « It will be an urban race like in Singapore and Monaco. It will be a night race like in Singapore, » stated Kanokphand Chulakasem, representative of the Sports Authority of Thailand, in the columns of the Bangkok Post.

As usual, it will be necessary to find common ground on the financial plan with Bernie Ecclestone, which is not the easiest task to accomplish. Unlike the French state, which does not wish to invest a euro in a potential French Grand Prix, the Thai government would finance its project up to 60%. So, 40% remains to be found, which will come from sponsors such as Red Bull or Singha, a Thai beer brand.

Before hosting the Formula 1 racing cars in two years, Thailand will welcome a few drivers next December for the Race of Champions. Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher will notably be part of the event to represent Germany.