Maffei informed journalists during the Monaco Grand Prix that there is interest from Thailand, South Korea, and Indonesia in hosting a race in Asia. Currently, the championship consists of a record 24 races.
Previously, South Korea hosted a grand prix in Mokpo, but now there is interest in bringing the race to the capital, Seoul.
The Prime Minister of Thailand attended the recent race at the Imola circuit in Italy, sparking discussions about a possible race in Bangkok. Additionally, Liberty Media recently acquired MotoGP, which already has races in Thailand and Indonesia.
After a four-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Formula 1 returned to China this year, with Chinese driver Guanyu Zhou making his home debut with Sauber.
Maffei stated: “We were fortunate to have a race in China this year after a four-year break. It was incredibly successful. Interest in China has been growing, partly because of our Chinese driver. There is great interest across Asia, including Thailand, Seoul, and Indonesia.”
Maffei added: “There are numerous locations that want to host a Formula 1 race. We are focused on the intersection of where our fans are and where they could potentially be, as well as identifying locations that can host a fantastic race and have the financial means to do so. It is very likely that we will see a second race in Southeast Asia.”
Currently, Singapore is the only race in Southeast Asia, as the Malaysian leg was removed from the calendar. Alex Albon, a British driver for Williams whose mother is Thai, represents Thailand in Formula 1.
Maffei also expressed Formula 1’s intention to expand the success of last year’s inaugural night Grand Prix in Las Vegas. However, he acknowledged the need to improve and be more attentive to the wishes of the community and fans.
The first race of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship held in Asia was the 1976 Japanese Grand Prix in Fuji. Malaysia followed as the next race on the calendar, with its first Grand Prix taking place at the Sepang International Circuit. Bahrain became the first Middle Eastern country to host the series, starting in 2004.
Vietnam was scheduled to host a Grand Prix, but the agreement was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lack of continued interest from the country. However, interest in the region remains strong, despite the presence of three races in India on the calendar from 2011 to 2013 and the absence of Malaysia. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin)
