HISTORY OF THE CHANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT

The Chang International Circuit, also known as Buriram International Circuit, is a motorsport race track located in Buriram, Thailand. It holds the distinction of being the first circuit in Thailand to meet the standards of both FIA Grade 1 and FIM Grade A, allowing it to host top-tier international motorsport events.

The concept for the circuit was initiated by Newin Chidchob, a Thai politician and businessman who was also the chairman of Buriram United Football Club. He aimed to develop Buriram as a sports hub, complementing its football prominence with motorsport. Construction began in 2013 with the design handled by Hermann Tilke, a German engineer known for creating modern Formula 1 circuits around the world. The track was completed in 2014, covering an area of approximately 1,200 acres.

The Chang International Circuit was officially opened on October 4, 2014. Its debut event was the Japanese Super GT race, which attracted significant attention from motorsport fans both in Thailand and internationally. The track's layout is notable for its fast straights and challenging corners, with a total length of 4.554 kilometres (2.829 miles) and 12 turns. It can accommodate various types of racing, including cars, motorcycles, and endurance racing.

In the years following its opening, the circuit became a key venue for several international racing events. It has hosted the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) since 2015, marking Thailand’s first entry into this prestigious motorcycle racing series.

The MotoGP Thai Grand Prix, one of the most anticipated events in Southeast Asia, made its debut at the circuit in 2018, further cementing its reputation as a world-class racing facility.

The circuit's facilities, including grandstands and paddock areas, have been praised for their modern design and ability to accommodate large crowds, with a capacity of 50,000 spectators. It has become a major draw for motorsport tourism in Thailand, contributing to the local economy of Buriram.

In recent years, the Chang International Circuit has continued to grow in prominence, attracting top-tier motorsport series and becoming a favourite among fans and drivers for its unique layout and warm hospitality. It remains a symbol of Thailand’s growing presence in the global motorsport arena.

The winners of the Thailand motorcycle Grand Prix

2018: Marc Márquez (Honda) was the winner in the inaugural race.
2019: Marc Márquez (Honda) secured the win and clinched his eighth world title.
2021 and 2020: The races were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2022: Miguel Oliveira (KTM) claimed victory in wet conditions.
2023: Jorge Martín (Ducati) won the race.