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Nestled in the heart of Buriram, a small city in Northeastern Thailand, lies a world-class motorsports destination that has captivated fans from all over the world. The Chang International Circuit, also known as the Buriram Circuit, is a modern and versatile venue that offers a wide range of motorsports events, from MotoGP and WorldSBK to touring cars and GT races.
The idea of building a motorsports circuit in Thailand was first conceived in the early 2000s, as the country was looking to boost its tourism industry and attract more international visitors. The government of Thailand, in partnership with a group of private investors, commissioned the construction of the circuit in 2013, with a total investment of over 3 billion baht (approximately 94 million USD).
The construction of the Chang International Circuit was completed in just 14 months, and the track was officially inaugurated on October 4th, 2014, with the hosting of the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). The circuit was designed by the German architect Hermann Tilke, who is renowned for his work in designing some of the world’s most iconic race tracks, including the Circuit of the Americas and the Shanghai International Circuit.
The Chang International Circuit spans over 4.5 kilometers and features 12 turns, with a maximum straight-line speed of 320 km/h. The track has been praised by drivers and teams for its smooth surface and wide run-off areas, which allow for high-speed racing and safe overtaking maneuvers.
The opening of the Chang International Circuit has had a significant impact on the Thai motorsports scene, bringing world-class racing to the country and raising the profile of local drivers and teams. The circuit has become a hub for motorsports enthusiasts in Thailand and Southeast Asia, with thousands of fans attending races and events throughout the year.
The Chang International Circuit has also contributed to the development of motorsports in Thailand, providing a platform for local drivers and teams to showcase their skills and compete at an international level. The circuit has played host to a variety of motorsports events, including the Thailand Super Series (TSS), the Thailand Superbike Championship (TSC), and the Asian Le Mans Series (ALMS).
The TSS, which is Thailand’s premier touring car championship, features a diverse range of cars and drivers, from compact hatchbacks to high-performance sports cars. The championship has become a popular platform for Thai drivers to make a name for themselves in the world of motorsports, with some of the most successful drivers including Pasarit Phromsombat and Kantadhee Kusiri.
The TSC, on the other hand, is Thailand’s leading superbike championship, attracting some of the best motorcycle racers from across the region. The championship features a range of classes, including the premier Superbike class, as well as Supersport, Superstock, and Yamaha R3 Cup.
In addition to these local championships, the Chang International Circuit has also hosted several international events, including the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the Asian Road Racing Championship (ARRC), and the Blancpain GT Series Asia. These events have brought some of the biggest names in motorsports to Thailand, including Formula One drivers, MotoGP champions, and Le Mans winners.
The Chang International Circuit hosts a wide range of motorsports events throughout the year, catering to different types of fans and enthusiasts. Some of the most popular events at the circuit include the MotoGP and WorldSBK races, which are part of the FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix World Championship. These events bring together some of the best motorcycle racers in the world, competing in high-speed races that require skill, precision, and endurance.
The MotoGP race at the Chang International Circuit is part of the Thai Grand Prix, which was first held in 2018. The race takes place in October and features three classes of motorcycles, including MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3. The race is a major highlight of the Thai motorsports calendar and attracts thousands of fans from all over the world.
The WorldSBK race, on the other hand, is part of the Superbike World Championship, which features modified production motorcycles that are highly tuned for racing. The WorldSBK race at the Chang International Circuit takes place in March and is part of the championship’s Asia-Pacific leg. The race is a major draw for superbike fans in Thailand and Southeast Asia, who come to witness the thrilling action on the track.
Apart from these two major events, the Chang International Circuit also hosts a range of other motorsports events, including the TCR Asia Series, the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, and the Thailand Supersports 1000 Championship. The circuit also hosts non-motorsports events, such as concerts and festivals, making it a popular destination for entertainment and recreation.
The Chang International Circuit is more than just a race track. It is a modern and versatile venue that offers a range of facilities and amenities for fans and participants alike. The circuit features a state-of-the-art pit and paddock complex, with space for over 60 teams, as well as a media center, a VIP hospitality area, and a medical center.
The circuit also boasts a range of spectator facilities, including grandstands, hospitality suites, and general admission areas. The grandstands offer excellent views of the track and can accommodate up to 50,000 fans, while the hospitality suites provide a luxurious and exclusive experience for VIP guests.
In addition to the race track and spectator facilities, the Chang International Circuit also features a range of amenities for participants, including a driver training center, a go-kart track, and a motocross track. The driver training center is a state-of-the-art facility that offers coaching and training for drivers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. The go-kart track and motocross track are popular with fans and participants who want to experience the thrill of motorsports in a more accessible and affordable setting.
The Chang International Circuit is a world-class motorsports destination that has put Thailand on the map of global motorsports. Since its opening in 2014, the circuit has become a hub for motorsports enthusiasts in Thailand and Southeast Asia, hosting a range of local and international events that cater to different types of fans and participants.
The circuit has also contributed to the development of motorsports in Thailand, providing a platform for local drivers and teams to showcase their skills and compete at an international level. With its modern facilities and amenities, the Chang International Circuit offers a complete and immersive motorsports experience for fans and participants alike.
As the circuit continues to host more events and attract more fans and participants, it is likely to become an even more important part of the Thai motorsports landscape, and a key driver of the country’s tourism industry. Whether you are a motorsports fan or a casual spectator, the Chang International Circuit is a destination worth visiting and experiencing for yourself.
