Thailand Grand Prix moves a step closer

In December rumours were abound that Formula One could be set to make a move to Thailand in the not so distant future.

The idea that was muted was for a night race around the streets of Bangkok, which of course would provide a spectacular backdrop to any race track.

Importantly, funding appeared to already be in place with 60% of the annual fee covered by the Thailand government.

The remainder was set to come from private companies with Asian brewery Singha and Red Bull reportedly set to contribute the remaining 40%.

Now, five months further down the line and the Thailand government has confirmed that circuit plans have now been approved for with the first race possibly set for 2015.

A 3.75 mile circuit has been drawn up around the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard, with the starting grid proposed for the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

The Grand Palace, Victory Monument and Temple of Dawn would all be included in the race track so that the Grand Prix can showcase the whole city, while an innovative idea of floating grandstands would enable the fans to get close to the track despite the proximity of the water.

‘As the starting and finishing point would be on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, we may be able to build the main stands in the river. It would also be convenient for transportation of equipment,’ Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand Kanokphand Chulakasem told the Bangkok Post as quoted by Sky Sports.

‘Only a small group of residents would be affected by the proposed route.’

If the race does get the go ahead it will be yet another new country that Formula One visits and another indication that Formula One will continue to slowly move away from its more natural European homes.