Cheering for Tin

LAUNCHED FOR THE first time in 1987 and undergoing several incarnations since, the popular FIA World Touring Car Championship makes its debut in Thailand on October 31 and November 1 at the Chang International Circuit in Buri Ram. 

“Hosting this competition is important in terms of the association’s policy. The SAT plays the lead role in developing Thailand’s excellence in sports and professional sport playing. The aim is for Thailand to become the leader of sports in Asean. It is a great opportunity for Thailand to host an international event like WTCC for the first time. This will prove that Thailand is ready to host international racing competitions,” says Sakol Wannapong, governor of the Sports Association of Thailand.

 “It is time for Thailand to seamlessly combine tourism and sports in order to generate more income. We must get ready for new destinations in Thailand, and create confidence among international organisers that Thailand is capable of hosting mega events. We promote sustainable tourism to distribute income and to create a positive image of Thailand. Meanwhile, sports create harmony and this also assists tourism. I am confident that tourism in Thailand will continue to do well until the end of 2015. Forward bookings and advance ticket reservations have increased by 43 per cent in July, 30 per cent in August, and 40 per cent in September compared to the same period last year. This event is a good way to assure travellers of Thailand’s stability,” adds Tourism and Sports Minister Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul.

“We chose Thailand as one of the circuits of WTCC because we see the potential of this country. We are confident that the first race in Thailand is a great beginning, and will engage Thai people in motor sports more,” says Francois Ribeiro, WTCC general manager and head of Eurosport Events.

World Touring Car in Thailand is an international competition managed by Eurosport Events and certified by the FIA. This year, Thailand has been chosen as the host for the 11th circuit of 12 circuits worldwide. 

A total of 19 cars will be joining the competition, entered by top racing car brands like Citroen, Honda, Lada and Chevrolet. Racers include nine-time WRC champion Sebastien Loeb from France, and other international racers from 12 countries.

Tin Sritrai, a renowned Thai racer who has been the champion twice in the IMSP Touring Car Series in Asia, will make his official debut in WTCC on his own turf. He will be driving a Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1, competing on behalf of Campos Racing team.

“I am honoured to be a part of this, and I want the Thai people to support me. I will try my best as the representative of Thailand. |I don’t think a podium finish is |out of reach. Come and show your support,” Tin says.

 There will be also be a special Support Race by Toyota Motorsport. Tle Tanapat, Kwang AB Normal, and Zani AF will show their skills on tracks before the actual race.

 

The Right Track

 

- A one-day pass is priced at Bt1,000 while the two-day pass is Bt1,500. Buy yours at Thai Ticket Major outlets or online at www.ThaiTicketMajor.com. Purchases of 10 tickets or more will receive a 20-per-cent discount.

- For more information and the latest updates, log on to www.FiaWtcc.com or www.Bric.co.th.