Siripong Rebuts Claims of Favoritism in MotoGP Funding Dispute

Bangkok: Siripong Angkasakulkiat, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, has countered accusations leveled by Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong and Pheu Thai Party members regarding the allocation of MotoGP funds, asserting that the allegations of favoritism towards certain businesses are unfounded. Siripong emphasized the importance of recognizing the economic and social benefits the event has brought to Thailand. According to Thai News Agency, Siripong addressed the concerns raised by Pol. Col. Thawee concerning the financial benefits allegedly accruing to specific businesses as a result of the MotoGP event. He also responded to Pheu Thai Party spokesperson Suksit Srichomkhwan's claims about the inefficiency of the budget, suggesting that the criticisms stem from a lack of comprehensive understanding and experience. Siripong criticized the party for not conducting thorough research before making such allegations, which he believes are politically motivated. Siripong elaborated on the increase in licensing f ees for MotoGP, acknowledging the concerns about rising costs despite expectations of declining attendance. He clarified that the event has consistently grown over its seven-year tenure from 2018 to 2025, drawing over 220,000 spectators in its latest iteration and generating significant economic value. He highlighted that conservative attendance estimates were used for prudent financial planning, yet the trend indicates increasing popularity and economic benefit. He further explained the high costs associated with hosting world-class competitions like MotoGP, attributing them to extensive global viewership and the subsequent currency exchange implications. The contract, which has been in place since 2018, includes a 5% annual fee increase, reflecting the escalating costs associated with such prestigious events. The MotoGP event in Thailand represents a significant milestone, being the first world opening event in the country and one of only a few held in Asia. Siripong underscored the broader socio-economic impact, including job creation, tourism, and local income generation, which extends beyond mere financial metrics. Regarding allegations that the event was designed to benefit Buriram United International Circuit, Siripong clarified that the circuit has provided its facilities free of charge for the races, negating any claims of government fund misuse. He urged critics to acknowledge the circuit's contribution rather than making baseless accusations. Siripong also differentiated the MotoGP's organizational structure, highlighting its cooperative nature involving the Sports Authority of Thailand and the copyright owner, in contrast to other government-subsidized projects like Tomorrowland 2025. He invited scrutiny of the relationships between companies involved in past projects and those organizing current events under different political leaderships. Addressing concerns about the Prime Minister's household registration ties to MotoGP, Siripong clarified that the registration's location is coincidental and unrelated to any contractual agreements with Buriram United International Circuit. He reiterated that the circuit's free provision of facilities for MotoGP races has been a consistent practice benefiting the nation without financial burden on the government.