PT GRAND PRIX OF THAILAND
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PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2026 concluded a major sporting programme led by the Sports Authority of Thailand and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, with support from public agencies, private partners and local communities. It included pre-season testing on 21–22 February and the season opener on 27 February–1 March at Chang International Circuit in Buriram.
Seven editions of ThaiGP: the figures behind the event
From its first race in 2018 to two consecutive season openers, ThaiGP's seven editions generated more than THB 30 billion in economic activity and welcomed over 1.3 million fans, according to the organisers. Broadcasts reached 207 countries and more than 800 million households worldwide.
2026 sets the event’s highest attendance in seven editions
On 1 March, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the opening ceremony of the PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2026 as the event reported new attendance records.
The organisers reported a record 228,228 spectators: 82% Thai and 18% international. They described international attendance as up 3% on the previous year and reported average visitor spending of THB 36,636 per person per trip.
More Than Buriram highlights the event's benefits beyond the host province. Riders, teams, staff and fans also travel before and after the race, visiting southern beaches, Bangkok temples and northern natural attractions. Their trips generate tourism income across the country.
The organisers reported fully booked accommodation in Buriram and nearby Surin, Nakhon Ratchasima and Chaiyaphum. Sales at OTOP outlets and restaurants reached up to five times normal levels. They estimated 7,983 jobs, at least THB 5.139 billion in economic activity and no less than THB 358 million in tax revenue.
More Than a Race: the Tuk Tuk Challenge brings a new pre-event experience
A pre-event tuk-tuk race brought 21 MotoGP riders onto the circuit. Organisers said the widely shared social media content reached more than a billion views and shares worldwide.
Fans around the world praised the Tuk Tuk Challenge's humour and entertainment, with some saying it stole the show from the racing. The organisers saw it as a new demonstration of Thailand's ability to create enjoyable, accessible events.
The unscripted Tuk Tuk Challenge reached beyond regular race fans through its humour and distinctive Thai character. The organisers saw it as an effective showcase for Thai Power, encouraging viewers to consider a future ThaiGP visit or a tuk-tuk experience in Thailand.
Close racing and on-track excitement
The Sprint and Grand Prix produced close racing throughout, with riders contesting every corner and positions changing lap by lap. Turn 12 was a particular focus: the demanding final corner repeatedly shaped the outcome.
Aprilia Racing's Marco Bezzecchi led from start to finish to win the season opener. Marc Marquez's late tyre failure provided a dramatic counterpoint to the Italian's victory.
Beyond racing: sharing the appeal of Thai culture
The ThaiGP combines a motorsport festival with Thai culture, creating an identity that organisers said had made a lasting impression on visitors from around the world.
ThaiGP's cultural programme included eight Muay Thai bouts in front of Chang Arena, the distinctive Shuttle Taen farm-vehicle service, and local young musicians performing the national anthem with an orchestra. Nang Yai shadow-puppet performances added another expression of Buriram's cultural identity.
Shopping, food and entertainment in one place
Beyond the racing, the event featured motorsport merchandise, accessories, special collections and concerts by leading artists. An OTOP fair, organised with the Ministry of Interior, offered locally made crafts, regional products and food from across Thailand.
Seven years of ThaiGP: celebrating Thai Power
Across seven editions from 2018 to 2026, ThaiGP demonstrated Thailand's ability to stage a major international sporting event. Riders, teams, media and fans praised its distinctive atmosphere and hospitality. The organisers described it as more than a race: a source of economic activity and an international showcase for Thai culture and event-management expertise.
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