Bira Circuit: Get Your Heart Racing in Chonburi

The Bear Team 7 min read

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Chonburi, a charming city with hidden gems, offers key attractions that locals keep under wraps for a good reason. Unveiling the secrets of what to do in Chonburi is the key to transforming a day trip into a full-fledged holiday. Planning a trip to Chonburi is necessary for those seeking a thrilling adventure and getaway to places like Auto Race Tracks!

The Bira Circuit, a recent addition to Pattaya's attractions, is the hub for motorsports. This circuit is near Pattaya and promises excitement for racing enthusiasts and Formula 1 fans alike.

Spanning 65 acres, the Bira Circuit is undeniably a formidable racing track, so embark on a thrilling day at the Bira Circuit with us and immerse yourself in the excitement of a highly competitive motor racing event.

Fun Fact!

Many visitors who have experienced the Bira Circuit recommend booking a go-kart or motorbike racing session to immerse themselves in the thrill of the tracks. This is an opportunity to personally engage with the racing experience and enjoy the adrenaline of the Circuit's twists and turns.

Chonburi's Premier Racing Destination

The Bira Circuit, one of Thailand's most renowned motor racing tracks, bears the name of Prince Birabongse Bhanudej Bhanubandh, the country's first Formula 1 racing driver. Managed by Bira Circuit One Company, Limited, the circuit was inaugurated in 1985, encompassing a vast 65-acre area. Featuring a permanent 2.410 km track for motor and motorcycle racing, the facility also includes an offroad track and a rally stage, as well as a go-kart facility.

Characterized by its twisty and bumpy layout, the circuit incorporates elevation changes, two chicanes, and a fast downhill double apex corner. It offers 30 race car pits and exciting facilities such as a control tower, medical center, and meeting room. The grandstand and spectator area can host up to 100,000 people. Notably, Bira Circuit was the first in Thailand to meet the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) standards. Since 1992, it has hosted events like the South East Asia Touring Car Zone Challenge and the Asian Formula 2000.

The go-kart track at Bira Circuit features straights where speeds of up to 100 km/h (62 mph) can be attained, contingent on weather conditions.

Trivia

The Circuit has complete facilities for arranging motorsport events, race meetings, racing schools, test drives, etc.

The Story Behind Bira Circuit

The construction of the facility, initially known as the Pattaya Circuit, commenced and concluded in 1985. Shortly after its completion, the circuit was renamed in honor of Siamese Prince Birabongse Bhanudej Bhanubandh, popularly known as Prince Bira, who passed away in December 1985 at 71.

Prince Bira remains the only Thai individual to have competed at the highest level of world motorsport until the more recent achievements of Alex Albon in Formula One. Prince Bira participated in 19 Formula One World Championship events between 1950 and 1954, achieving a best finish of fourth.

Bira Circuit significantly advanced Thai motorsport with the inaugural Mobil One Grand Prix 1986. A notable moment occurred in 1990 when the McLaren Formula One team visited, and Allan McNish performed demonstration laps in the McLaren-Honda MP4/5.

Since 1992, the South East Asia Touring Car Zone Challenge (SEAT CZC) has been a regular event at Bira Circuit, followed by the Asian Formula 2000 (AF2000) from 1997 onwards. During periods without race events, the Bira Circuit can serve as a venue for private functions, including hosting driving schools, testing programs, and corporate events.

The Bira Circuit holds significance in Chonburi for several reasons:

• Versatile Facility

  • Despite its relatively small size, the Bira Circuit is a versatile facility accommodating various motorsport events.

  • Although short and twisty, the track offers challenges that make it suitable for different types of racing.

• Contributions to Motorsport Development

  • Bira Circuit has played a crucial role in motorsport development in Thailand.

  • Hosting events like the South East Asia Touring Car Zone Challenge and the Asian Formula 2000 has provided a platform for local and regional talents to showcase their skills.

• Historical Significance

  • The circuit's name change in memory of Prince Birabongse Bhanudej Bhanubandh, known as Prince Bira, adds historical and cultural significance. Prince Bira's contributions to Formula One racing are honored through this circuit.

• Private Functions

  • Apart from hosting motorsport events, the Bira Circuit facility is well-equipped to host private functions, including driving schools, testing programs, and corporate events.

  • This adds to its versatility and makes it a hub for various automotive activities.

Overall, the Bira Circuit is more than just a racing track; it stands as a symbol of Thailand's presence in the motorsport world, contributing to the region's growth and popularity of the sport.

Exploring the Bira Circuit Racing Legacy

The Bira Circuit holds a special place in Thailand's racing history, closely tied to the legacy of Prince Birabongse Bhanudej Bhanubandh. As the country's only Formula 1 competitor, Prince Bira's contribution to motorsports is commemorated through this circuit. Established in 1985, the venue has been a focal point for Thailand's car lovers and racing enthusiasts.

Despite its relatively modest size and limited upgrades, the Bira Circuit remains a popular and well-regarded racing venue. It meets the standards set by the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), ensuring a competitive and safe environment for racing activities. With its 2.41 km length and 11 turns, the track offers challenging conditions, particularly the fast, downhill, double-apex corner.

The circuit's significance extends beyond local races, hosting events like the South East Asia Touring Cars Zone Challenge and Asian Formula 2,000 races. It has contributed to the developing of Thai motorsports, offering local and regional talents a platform to showcase their skills. The facility's 65-acre premises include a racing track, an off-road track, and a karting track meeting international standards.

With full facilities like a control tower, pit garages, steward towers, a medical center, and a meeting room, the Bira Circuit is well-equipped to host various motorsports events. Beyond racing, the circuit is a versatile venue for other significant events, including product launches, concerts, and exhibitions. While it has gained popularity among locals and motorsports enthusiasts, it has yet to garner significant international attention.

Nonetheless, the Bira Circuit remains a key player in Thailand's racing scene and a tribute to Prince Bira's racing legacy.

Why Visit the Bira Circuit in Chonburi?

Bira Circuit, inaugurated in 1985 near Pattaya, is distinguished as Thailand's first permanent motor racing venue. While it has primarily been a hub for local racing events, it hasn't gained widespread international recognition. The circuit's layout is characterized by its compact, U-shaped course, featuring short straights, several chicanes, and a notably fast downhill double-apex corner. The track's bumpy nature and Thailand's hot and humid climate add an extra challenge to racing events.

While spectators can enjoy the view from the grandstands during races, the real thrill comes from experiencing the track firsthand. Visitors can book go-kart or motorbike racing sessions to feel the excitement of the circuit. It's advisable to check for ongoing events before planning a visit, as the track primarily hosts rounds of local championships, such as the Thailand Super Series and the Yamaha Championship.

For enthusiasts who revel in the roar of engines, the sight of fast cars, and the flying gravel, Bira Circuit offers an exciting experience. Attendees can often watch races from the stands at no additional cost, making it an accessible option for motorsports fans.

How to Visit the Bira Circuit in Chonburi?

The Bira Circuit is conveniently situated between Pattaya and Rayong, directly along Highway 36. Visitors from Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok) can opt for the motorway toll road (Highway 7) towards Chon Buri and Pattaya, followed by an exit onto Highway 36. Another route involves taking the Chonburi Expressway (Highway 34) from Bangkok to Chon Buri, exiting onto Highway 36 at Chon Buri, and continuing towards the Circuit.

For those flying in, the nearest airport is Bangkok, located approximately 120 km north of the Bira Circuit, requiring about a 90-minute drive. The average travel time from Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok), particularly when taking the Chonburi motorway, is around 1.5 hours. The route may be slightly longer if the expressway is chosen.

Did you know?

The South East Asia Touring Cars Zone Challenge and Asian Formula 2000 races were probably the most important events held at Bira Circuit.

Maps & More Information 

Bira Circuit is a popular motor racing track in Thailand, named after the first Thai Formula 1 racing driver, Prince Birabongse Bhanudej Bhanubandh. Bira Circuit One Company, Limited, has operated the Circuit. The track, initially opened in 1985, covers an area of 65 acres.