On 11 November 2025, the official press conference was held at the 25th-floor conference room of the Chalermphrakiat 7th Cycle Anniversary Building, Sports Authority of Thailand (Huamark), to announce Thailand's hosting of the PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2026 and the official launch of ticket sales. Thailand will host the Pre-Season Test on 21-22 February 2026, followed by the highly anticipated season-opening race from 27 February to 1 March 2026 at Chang International Circuit, Buriram. Key representatives from both the public and private sectors attended, including the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Sports Authority of Thailand, National Sports Development Fund, PTG Energy Public Company Limited, Dorna Sports, Buriram Province, and Chang International Circuit, as well as delegates from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Department of Land Transport, Chang Mineral Water, Thai Honda Co., Ltd., Thai Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., and AAS Auto Service Co., Ltd. (Ducati Thailand). With over 400 media professionals and guests in attendance, the event marked one of Thailand's most high-profile press conferences of the year.
The event also marked the official launch of ticket sales for the PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2026. This year, ticket sales are available earlier than ever, accompanied by a host of exciting activities, prize giveaways, and exclusive merchandise. The tickets also come with the special "3-in-1 Global Exclusive" privileges, offering free access to three main experiences: the Pre-Season Test, the Main Race, and admission to entertainment activities—letting fans experience full-throttle MotoGP action at no extra cost after the launch of Grandstand tickets sold out within 3.21 minutes.
Government Drives Forward ThaiGP, Positions Thailand as the Regional Motorsport Hub
Dr. Gongsak Yodmani, Governor of Sports Authority of Thailand, in the capacity of the event host, said Thailand hosting MotoGP for the seventh consecutive year, and serving as the season-opening race for the second year in a row, is no coincidence. It is the result of the dedicated efforts of all involved sectors. Over the years, Thailand has showcased a very unique identity through warm hospitality and the unforgettable atmosphere created for fans. Thailand aims to give every visitor an authentic taste of Thailand's charm and leave a lasting impression that stands out from any other circuit in the world.
"ThaiGP is more than just a race; it is a strategic tool that drives the economy through sport tourism, generating both direct and indirect economic value across tourism, hotels, transportation, and supply chains. These tangible benefits demonstrate the impact Thailand has achieved as a MotoGP host."
"Following a recent Cabinet meeting, the Thai government approved a 5-year extension for Thailand to host the event from 2027 to 2031, reflecting the government's clear commitment to continue. ThaiGP is a strategic asset that enhances the country's global image, attracts international visitors, and fosters sustainable economic circulation. The Sports Authority of Thailand has been tasked with positioning the
country as a regional motorsport hub by supporting competitions, developing young riders, and leveraging soft power to showcase Thailand's identity and values to the world."
ThaiGP: Investing in the Future of Thai Sports and Shaping a Model ASEAN Sports City
Mr. Tanukiat Junchum, Manager of the National Sports Development Fund, highlighted that as the primary agency supporting MotoGP in Thailand, the Fund has observed significant growth and tangible results from the event. Over the past six years, MotoGP has generated more than 25 billion baht in circulation and attracted over 1.2 million visitors, proving that hosting a world-class event not only strengthens Thailand's sports sector but also delivers substantial economic benefits, boosts tourism, and enhances the country's global image.
He added that hosting MotoGP in Thailand is not just an international sporting event; it is an investment in the future of Thai sports. The event inspires young people, creates new careers in the sports industry, and stimulates regional economic development, particularly in Buriram Province. Buriram has emerged as a model sports city in the ASEAN region and a platform to further develop Thailand's motorsport potential sustainably."
Dorna Hails ThaiGP as a Comprehensive Fan Experience; One of MotoGP's Most Attended Races
Ms. Amparo Porto, Senior Director of Dorna Sports, the rights holder of MotoGP, expressed gratitude to Thailand, through the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and SAT, for their outstanding collaboration and commitment in hosting ThaiGP. Dorna Sports has extended Thailand's hosting rights for another five years, and commended all parties involved for contributing to the event's remarkable success.
"Thailand is recognized as a highly significant market for MotoGP in the region, with a strong and passionate fan base and great potential to further expand its audience. ThaiGP is among the most attended races on the MotoGP calendar, offering fans a world-class experience both on and off the track. The fan zones in Thailand are particularly notable for their variety of activities, entertainment, dining, and multifunctional spaces, creating a fully immersive experience. This comprehensive approach reflects MotoGP's philosophy of engaging fans throughout the entire race weekend, and Buriram has proven capable of delivering this exceptional experience to its fullest potential."
PTG Pulls Out All the Stops with 'PT GO FOR MAX,' Returning for a 3rd Year as Title Sponsor
Mr. Pitak Ratchakitprakarn, President and Chief Executive Officer of PTG Energy Public Company Limited (PTG), the title sponsor for the third consecutive year, emphasized the company's pride in supporting ThaiGP. PTG has seen tangible positive outcomes from its involvement, including strengthening its brand, expanding business opportunities, and creating shared value for the country and its people.
"Under the slogan 'PT GO FOR MAX,' PTG aims to deliver exceptional experiences for fans, ensuring maximum enjoyment from the pre-event activities through race day. Special benefits are offered to PT Max Card holders (Red Card Plus) or PT Max Card Plus EV (Light Green Plus), including a 25% discount and a 20% discount for Green Card members. Fans can also enjoy a variety of interactive promotions such as product giveaways, exchange activities, and shopping from PTG's portfolio, including PT Maxnitron Thai coffee, Autobacs service centers, and other products, alongside exclusive licensed merchandise for motorsport enthusiasts."
"The event's highlights include an expanded Fan Zone, Hero Walk, and Meet and Greet sessions, hosted exclusively at the PT Pavilion, providing fans with an experience far beyond watching the race. PTG's efforts ensure that a visit to Chang International Circuit delivers excitement, value, and unforgettable memories."
Buriram at 100%, MotoGP Fuels Over 46,000 Jobs and Counting
Mr. Piya Pichanam, Governor of Buriram province, speaking as the host city, underlined the province's readiness and the broader impact of MotoGP. He noted that the success of MotoGP is measured not just by the three days of racing, but as a catalyst for sustainable city development. Buriram has not only grown in recognition but has also established itself as a major sports tourism destination on the global stage. Over the past six years, the event has distributed economic benefits to local communities, generating more than 46,000 jobs.
As the capital of motorsports in Thailand, Buriram is fully prepared to host the event, with robust infrastructure, upgraded public utilities, enhanced security measures, and warm hospitality. The province aims to deliver an unforgettable experience to visitors from around the world. Hosting the season-opening race again presents a key opportunity to further stimulate the local economy and strengthen Buriram's reputation as a world-class motorsport destination
'More Than a Race' Concept Ignites Excitement with Bigger, Better Action and a Shot at a New Attendance Record
Mr. Tanaisiri Chanvitayarom, Managing Director of Chang International Circuit, concluded by highlighting that ThaiGP 2026 will be held under the concept "More Than a Race," reflecting the circuit's role as more than just a racetrack. Chang International Circuit has long served the community beyond motorsport, acting as a COVID-19 relief center, an emergency evacuation hub, and hosting numerous social initiatives.
This year, the event will be bigger and more exciting, with a full lineup of supplementary activities across all three days. Recognized by Dorna as one of the circuits with the most exhilarating fan experiences, Chang International Circuit will expand the Fan Zone, host national-level concerts through Chang Music Connection, and continue offering the world's most affordable MotoGP tickets, including exclusive access to the Pre-Season Test. The circuit aims to deliver the best and most memorable experience on the MotoGP calendar, with the goal of surpassing the previous attendance record of 226,655 fans in 2019, and intends to maintain strong growth over the next five-year contract period.
Tickets for MotoGP Thailand 2026 are available in four categories, all of which include complimentary access to the Pre-Season Test and full access to the Main Race over the three-day event. The Grandstand tickets, priced at 5,000 baht, provide fans with views of every corner of the circuit, while the Rider Stand, at 3,000 baht, offers dedicated areas for supporters of individual riders, such as the Marquez and Quartararo Stands, each featuring official rider merchandise. The Side Stand and Brand Stand are both priced at 2,000 baht, with the latter designed for fans of specific motorcycle brands, including Honda and Yamaha, offering opportunities to win prizes and receive exclusive sponsor gifts.
Honda Stand ticket holders will receive a Cheering Kit valued at over 800 baht, including a limited-edition T-shirt from Thai Honda, a cap, a bag, an inflatable baton, and a fan. Yamaha Stand ticket holders will have the chance to win two grand prizes: an all-new Yamaha NMAX motorcycle with a helmet signed by Fabio Quartararo, or an all-new Yamaha Aerox motorcycle with a helmet signed by Alex Rins. The total value of Yamaha Stand prizes is 238,700 baht, ensuring an exciting and memorable experience for all attendees.
For fans who wish to attend only the Pre-Season Test on 21-22 February 2026, tickets are available in several options. Grandstand tickets are priced at 500 baht per day, or 900 baht for both days, while VIP tickets are available at 5,000 baht per day. For the first time, the VIP Lounge at Turn 12 will be offered at 20,000 baht, delivering a premium experience that allows fans to witness every decisive moment in the final corner before the finish line. The lounge features air-conditioned comfort, gourmet catering, unlimited beverages, Wi-Fi, live broadcasts of the action up close, and complimentary access to the Pre-Season Test. In addition, Paddock Passes are available for 15,000 baht, granting exclusive access to the riders' hospitality area, opportunities for autographs, and personal photo sessions. Fans who purchase the Paddock Pass alongside a Main Race ticket will receive a 15% discount, reducing the price to 12,750 baht, while still enjoying free access to the Pre-Season Test.
Discounts and exclusive benefits remain as generous as ever. PTG offers ticket holders special discounts to maximize their enjoyment, including 25% off for PT Max Card Plus (red card) holders and 20% off for PT Max Card (green card) holders when presented at point-of-sale. Fans can also enjoy a variety of on-site activities, including special promotions, product exchanges, giveaways, and shopping from PTG's product range, such as PT Maxnitron coffee and Autobacs service centers, along with an array of limited-edition MotoGP merchandise. Additional discounts of 20% are available from other sponsors, including the Chang International Circuit Friend Club and select motorcycle brands. Honda and Yamaha key holders can redeem their discounts at respective stands.
Motorsports fans can purchase tickets at Counter Service All Ticket in 7-Eleven stores nationwide, or online via the AllTicket website. For more information and updates, fans can follow the Chang Circuit Buriram Facebook page or stay connected through LINE by adding @changcircuit.