Thailand’s government is in advanced talks to extend its hosting rights for the MotoGP Grand Prix at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram beyond 2026, marking a strategic move to harness sports tourism and reinforce the country’s global event credentials.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong confirmed the Cabinet has tasked the Sports Authority of Thailand with preparing a detailed benefits review ahead of formal negotiations with rights-holder Dorna Sports.

The current hosting agreement covers events through the end of 2026 and has consistently delivered strong results for Thailand’s economy, attracting more than 220,000 spectators in the 2025 edition and generating over 5 billion baht in local spending.

The government emphasises that any extension must guarantee maximum economic value and align with national goals of tourism diversification and regional development.

With Thailand positioning itself as a regional sports-tourism hub, the extension of its MotoGP contract would secure another five-year term and consolidate the Buriram region’s transformation through motorsport-driven infrastructure investment, job creation and global media exposure.

While wisdom holds that the financial and logistical demands of hosting top-tier events are considerable, the government views the extension as essential in maintaining Thailand’s competitive edge in international sports.

The negotiations come alongside Thailand’s broader ambition to host a Formula One race in Bangkok from 2028. Officials stressed that continuation of MotoGP does not preclude this future goal, but rather complements it by reinforcing Thailand’s multi-discipline event capacity.

The outcome of the talks with Dorna Sports is expected to be announced in the second half of 2025, after the benefits-analysis report is submitted to the Cabinet.