Bira International Circuit in Chonburi Province, widely known as “Bira Circuit,” is the first permanent international-standard race track in Thailand. Located at Moo 111, Pong Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, along Highway 36, it lies just 15–20 kilometers from Pattaya, making it easily accessible from Bangkok and nearby tourist cities. More than just a race track, Bira Circuit has become a hub for Thai motorsport, serving as a venue for competitions, vehicle testing, and tourism at the same time.

 

The track was originally built in 1985 under the name “Pattaya Circuit” and was renamed “Bira Circuit” in 1988 to honor Prince Birabongse Bhanudej, or Prince Bira, Thailand’s legendary Formula One driver. This renaming gave the track not only symbolic meaning but also emphasized the ambition to elevate Thai motorsport to international recognition.

 

The main circuit stretches 2.410 kilometers in length. However, the number of turns is reported differently across sources—some say 11, others 12, and some 13. Regardless of this variation, all agree that Bira Circuit offers a highly technical layout featuring short straights, sharp bends, chicanes, and a high-speed downhill section. Drivers often describe it as a “teaching track,” one that forces racers to refine skills in braking, tire management, and precise cornering.

 

Facilities are well developed, including around 30 pit garages, a race control tower, safety zones, medical facilities, and grandstands with seating for about 30,000 spectators. Importantly, Bira Circuit was the first Thai track to be certified by the FIA, the world governing body for motorsport. This certification has positioned it as a reliable venue for both national and international events.

 

Events hosted at the circuit go beyond car and motorcycle racing. The venue also supports vehicle testing, automotive product launches, karting races, and rally stages. The track has even been used for special activities such as running events that let participants experience the racecourse on foot. This versatility has made Bira Circuit not only a motorsport center but also a multi-purpose venue for business, lifestyle, and tourism.

 

The circuit’s connection with Pattaya is also strong. Every racing weekend, particularly Saturdays and Sundays, the venue draws racers, crews, and fans, boosting the local economy through hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Bira Circuit thus plays a dual role—not only as a racing facility but also as a driver of regional tourism and economic growth.

 

Training and education are also integral to its mission. The circuit regularly offers safe driving and advanced driving programs, as well as karting opportunities for youth and families. These programs provide not just excitement but also nurture the next generation of Thai racers.

 

Over more than three decades, Bira International Circuit has undergone continuous upgrades to meet modern motorsport standards. Improvements include resurfacing, expanded facilities, and plans to extend the main circuit to over 3.6 kilometers, making it capable of hosting world-class competitions. These ongoing developments reinforce Bira’s role as the heartbeat of Thai motorsport.

 

 

A: The main circuit is 2.410 km long. Depending on the source, it is said to have 11, 12, or 13 turns, but all agree the track is highly technical and challenging.

 

A: It is situated in Pong Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, along Highway 36, about 15–20 km from Pattaya.

 

A: The grandstands and viewing areas can hold around 30,000 people.

 

A: The venue offers around 30 pit garages, a race control tower, medical services, karting and rally facilities, and large spectator stands.

 

A: Yes. Bira Circuit was the first permanent Thai circuit to receive FIA certification, ensuring safety and standards for international racing.