Thailand plans major revamp of venues to host global events

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong outlined plans to revitalise Thailand’s events infrastructure and attract world-class competitions and concerts.

He told the press on Wednesday that the ministry will act as a mediator between Chulalongkorn University and private companies to redevelop the National Stadium and the Nimibutr Sports Building.
The Physical Education Department’s contract for the stadium has expired and the owner, Chulalongkorn University, will be encouraged to allow private-sector management to transform it into a “multi-function stadium”.

The envisioned venue would host large-scale concerts and major sporting events, positioning Thailand as a prime destination for international competitions.

“We will propose various models to show how Chulalongkorn University and the public will benefit from this collaboration,” Sorawong explained.

Initial discussions with the university have taken place and formal negotiations with its leadership are expected soon, he added.
The government is also open to public-private investments, Sorawong said, noting that the stadium is located in Pathumwan, the “heart” of Bangkok. He said such development projects could inject significant economic activity into the surrounding area.

Besides, he said, other venues like the Rajamangala National Stadium, Impact Muang Thong Thani and the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre are very limited and fail to meet the demands of modern large-scale events.

Rajamangala is in a poor condition, Impact Muang Thong Thani is too small and the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre is devoted to trade fairs, meetings and seminars, he said.

He added that discussions are ongoing about whether the Sports Authority of Thailand should continue managing Rajamangala Stadium or pursue redevelopment through public-private partnerships or concessions. He added that a decision on the stadium’s future should be made during his tenure.

Additionally, Sorawong hinted at upcoming “big surprises” in events, sports and entertainment, adding that the ministry is pursuing Thailand’s bid to host a Formula 1 race, potentially by 2027.

“I recently confirmed with the F1 CEO that even with the change of prime minister, Thailand is still ready to host the F1 race,” he said. Former prime minister Srettha Thavisin had first started talks about holding the race in Thailand.

Sorawong said his ministry is currently determining the race route and event venue. He added that he personally believes it should be a “street race” held at night so there is very little public disruption. He also expressed confidence in F1’s economic potential, saying it would generate significant revenue.

The Tourism and Sports Ministry is also exploring hosting internationally renowned events like “Tomorrowland” or creating Thailand’s own such event. Sorawong is collaborating with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to integrate these events into a long-term five-year tourism calendar. Successful projects like the annual “Vijit Chao Phraya” light and sound show held for three years serve as an inspiration for this approach.