Thailand is steadily advancing towards securing a place on Formula 1's race schedule.
Following the season opener in Australia, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali flew directly to Bangkok for a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. He praised the "impressive plans" for a proposed inaugural grand prix in the capital's Chatuchak district, slated for 2028.
"I am looking forward to continuing our discussions in the weeks and months ahead," said Domenicali.
Those negotiations have since moved forward, with confirmation that Domenicali and Shinawatra have signed a memorandum of understanding. Dr Gongsak Yodmani, head of Thailand's sports authority, verified the reports.
"The important thing is that we have to understand the community and the people in the area who will be affected by the race," he told the Bangkok Post.
"We all agree that hosting an F1 event should benefit all concerned parties, especially people living in the area. We need to let them know that we're committed to minimising the impact on environmental and noise issues and ensuring the locals are informed and compensated."
Alex Albon, F1's British-born Thai driver, expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of racing in his ancestral homeland and plans to contact Domenicali to lend his backing.
"I think we're going to reach out later," he said.
"It's very exciting. It will be interesting with the heat, that's one area where we might become a Singapore 2.0. On my side I'm just doing everything I can to make it happen."
