• Thai Grand Prix

Thailand eyeing new Phuket venue

ESPN Staff
June 12, 2013 « Space preventing F1 comeback - Kubica | Silverstone Young Driver Test dates confirmed »
Plans to see Formula One on the streets of Bangkok have come to a halt © Getty Images
Enlarge

The organisers of the proposed Thai Grand Prix are focusing on relocating the race to Phuket after plans to host it in Bangkok were dashed by a new law.

A month after a layout was approved by the Sports Authority of Thailand, the Thai government introduced a law in May banning racing in the cultural quarter of Bangkok. Having initially feared that the race could be cancelled as a result, Tourism and Sports Minister Somsak Pureesrisak says there is still time for a new venue to be found, with Phuket top of the list at present.

"I can confirm that we cannot hold a Grand Prix on Ratchadamnoen Avenue," Somsak is quoted as telling the Bangkok Post. "The law, which took effect last month, prohibits a car racing event in inner Bangkok.

"Phuket should be an ideal venue which meets our target to promote tourism. We still have time to prepare for the race."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
ESPN Staff Close