12/06/2013
NEWS STORY
Following the introduction of a new law which would prohibit F1 cars racing on the streets of Bangkok, the resort of Phuket is being suggested as an alternative venue.
In April, officials in Thailand approved the route of a circuit on which it was proposed to host a Formula One race in 2015. The 3.725 mile (5.995 km) track, which would run through the streets of Bangkok was approved by Kanokphand Chulakasem, the governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand.
The proposed circuit passed a number of civic monuments including the Grand Palace, Temple of Dawn and Victory Monument, while the pits and paddock complex were to be built alongside the Chao Phraya River.
However, with the final approval needing to come from the government, hopes were dashed when a new law was passed banning racing in the city's historic quarter.
"The law came into effect on 16 May prohibiting car racing in inner Bangkok because that area is a conservation for culture and arts," director general Kriangphon Pattanarat told France's AFP.
"I was told yesterday about the new city planning law," added Somsak Phurisisak, of the Department for Sport and Tourism, according to the Bangkok Post. "Whatever is illegal we will not do, so we may have to cancel the proposed grand prix."
However, speaking to the Bangkok Post yesterday, Somsak revealed that with Thailand still desperate to host a race in 2015, officials are looking at alternatives to the capital.
"The ministry will try to organise the race in other provinces such as Phuket," he said. "Phuket should be an ideal venue which meets our target to promote tourism.
"We still have time to prepare for the race," he insisted.
According to the Bangkok Post, Somsak suggested that alternative venues such as Khon Kaen or Nakhon Ratchasima may not be suitable "because they lack accommodation and facilities to house hundreds of people during the Grand Prix".
Hundreds?