Thailand F1 race track gets official green light

Thai government officials have agreed to a proposed track layout for Bangkok's inaugural Formula 1 night race in 2015.

Kanokphand Chulakasem, governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, has approved the 5.995km layout, with the start and finish line at the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard (Rat Woradit Pier), and will include Maha That Road, Na Phra Lan Road, Na Phra That Road, Chakrabongse Road, Phra Sumen Road, Ratchadamnoen Avenue, Maha Chai Road and Thai Wang Road.

The track will pass with past landmarks such as the Grand Palace, Victory Monument and Temple of Dawn. Makeshift grandstands are being planned along several areas with a target to accomodate 150,000 F1 fans.

Chulakasem said, "As the starting and finishing point would be on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, we may be able to build the main stands in the river. It would also be convenient for transportation of equipment.

"Only a small group of residents would be affected by the proposed route," he added.

The track layout and related plans for the night race will be submitted for cabinet approval within three months.