Bangkok F1 race faces setback after political shake-up

Thailand’s rapid bid to secure a Formula 1 race has been thrown into fresh uncertainty amid political upheaval in Bangkok.

Earlier this year, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali described the project as "impressive" during top-level talks, with officials quickly progressing from a Memorandum of Understanding to cabinet approval for a five-year plan worth up to $2 billion to host a new street race in the capital.

But momentum has now stalled after former prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra - who personally led the March delegation with Domenicali - was removed from office last week by the Constitutional Court over an ethics breach.

Her replacement, seasoned politician Phumtham Wechayachai, has taken over as acting prime minister, leaving doubts about whether the Bangkok Grand Prix will retain the same government backing.

Thailand’s cabinet had already pledged public funding, touting economic benefits, thousands of jobs, and global visibility to rival Singapore. In the meantime, circuit designers and environmental assessors have been studying potential layouts, with plans focused around the Chatuchak Park district.