The PM met Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula One Group, at the Monaco Grand Prix on Saturday (May 24) to discuss the feasibility of hosting an F1 race in Thailand before touring the track and observing F1 practice sessions.
The PM later posted on her X account, describing the outcome of her meeting with the Formula One Group as an important step forward and good news for the Thai people, reports the Bangkok Post. “Tourism is a key economic engine, and the government aims to expand beyond seasonal tourism by investing in ‘Man Made Destinations’ to host global events such as F1,” she said.
Organising an F1 event in Thailand would spur major investments - from road upgrades to accommodate racing, to building grandstands, paddocks and installing electronic and digital infrastructure, she said, adding these projects would create big employment opportunities.
Ms Paetongtarn said she updated Mr Domenicali on efforts by Thai agencies to study the necessary conditions, limitations and opportunities for hosting the race. Their discussions also included site feasibility and broader collaborative processes between F1 and the government.
While at the Monaco circuit, the PM also met Thai drivers Alex Albon and Tanapol Inthrapuvasak. Both expressed their willingness to return to Thailand to promote the sport, raise its profile and help nurture the next generation of Thai F1 drivers, she said.
In March 2025, Mr Domenicali visited Thailand and met Ms Paetongtarn, Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, and Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. The visit followed earlier talks initiated by former prime minister Srettha Thavisin in 2024. Both governments and F1 executives have since explored locations, including potential use of land near U-Tapao Airport for the race.
At the time, the Formula One Group CEO said that hosting an F1 race in Thailand would present a wide range of opportunities and offer benefits in several areas, particularly in the economy and tourism.
He added that Thailand has a strong motorsport fan base and could leverage the popularity of well-known drivers to promote additional related activities, while saying F1 could further support tourism by encouraging visitors to extend their stays in Thailand.
He said the Formula One Group would work closely with the government to explore the feasibility of the project and to create a memorable experience for motorsport fans around the world.