About Chang International Circuit
The Chang International Circuit stands as Thailand's premier motorsport venue, located in the northeastern province of Buriram, approximately 400 kilometers from Bangkok. Built in 2014, this world-class racing facility has transformed the region into an international sporting destination. The circuit combines technical challenges with spectator-friendly design, making it popular with both racers and fans from across Asia and beyond.
History and Development
Chang International Circuit opened on October 4, 2014, as part of a vision by Thai businessman and former politician Newin Chidchob to develop Buriram as a sports hub. The project cost 2 billion Thai Baht (around £38 million) and quickly put Thailand on the global motorsport map. It became the first circuit in Thailand to receive both FIA Grade 1 and FIM Grade A certifications, qualifying it to host Formula 1 and MotoGP events. The track's name comes from its primary sponsor, Chang Beer, though it is also known as Buriram United International Circuit in countries where alcohol advertising faces restrictions.
Track Design and Technical Specifications
Designed by renowned circuit architect Hermann Tilke, the 4.554-kilometer track features 12 turns (7 right and 5 left) and runs in a clockwise direction. The circuit includes a 1-kilometer straight, making it ideal for high-speed racing. With a consistent width of 12 meters, the asphalt surface offers excellent grip and racing conditions. A unique aspect of the design brief was to ensure maximum visibility from the main grandstand, allowing spectators to see as much racing action as possible. The layout includes six possible circuit variations, with three able to run simultaneously for different events.
Racing History and Major Events
The circuit hosted its first major event with the Japanese Super GT series in 2014. However, its international profile rose significantly when MotoGP arrived in 2018 with the Thailand Grand Prix. The inaugural MotoGP event attracted 220,000 fans and earned the title of "Best GP of 2018" from the MotoGP community. Other major championships hosted at Chang include the World Superbike Championship (2015-2019), Japanese Super GT (2014-2019), TCR Asia Series, GT World Challenge Asia, and the Asian Le Mans Series. The track's versatility allows it to accommodate both motorcycle and car racing events, sometimes within the same weekend.
Facilities and Features
Chang International Circuit can accommodate up to 100,000 spectators, with 50,000 in the main grandstand and another 50,000 on viewing berms around the track. The facility includes modern pit buildings, media centers, and hospitality areas. Full floodlighting enables night racing, adding another dimension to the venue's capabilities. The circuit design incorporates two large ponds inside its perimeter that help air circulation and reduce humidity, creating better racing conditions in Thailand's tropical climate.
Accessibility and Local Area
Located in Buriram, whose name translates to "city of happiness," the circuit sits about 10 kilometers from the city center. Visitors can reach Buriram via flights from Bangkok to the small local airport (BFV) or by train and bus connections. The nearby Bric Box Hotel provides convenient accommodation for race attendees. The circuit has played a significant role in boosting tourism to this previously lesser-known region of Thailand, bringing international visitors and developing the local economy.
