Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has reaffirmed the Thai government’s determination to bring a Formula 1 (F1) race to Thailand, a move aimed at boosting tourism and positioning the country as a premier global destination. The announcement marks the beginning of a strategic initiative that seeks to leverage high-profile events to drive economic growth and enhance Thailand’s international profile.
In a recent statement, the Prime Minister expressed strong optimism about the potential impact of hosting an F1 event, highlighting its role in attracting international tourists, fostering excitement, and spurring urban development. “We aim to attract tourists, spark excitement, and facilitate urban growth,” she said. The event is expected to draw large numbers of visitors, contributing to a surge in spending and strengthening Thailand’s reputation on the global stage.
The F1 announcement is part of a broader plan that includes the launch of several tourism campaigns to attract more visitors. Karom Phonphonklang, a deputy government spokesperson, revealed that the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is rolling out the “72 Styles of Happiness to Experience” campaign. This initiative, which includes an e-book, introduces 72 curated travel routes across Thailand, each offering a “Five Must-Do” list of activities focused on local culinary, adventurous, and cultural experiences.
In a further effort to amplify interest, five social media influencers will document their travels across Thailand, sharing their journeys through vlogs aimed at sparking excitement during the year-end tourist season. The government’s strategy is designed to boost visitor spending while promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand is also working to promote the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness, aiming to increase tourism across all regions. The collective impact of these initiatives is expected to generate a 7.5% rise in tourism revenue by the end of the year, underscoring the government’s focus on revitalising the sector.
This multi-faceted approach reflects Thailand’s commitment to leveraging global events, such as the proposed F1 race, to drive economic growth and enhance its standing in international tourism. As reported by the Bangkok Post, the government’s efforts are positioned to put Thailand on the map as a leading destination for both leisure and global sporting events.