Hanoi to host first Vietnam F1

FORMULA One is heading to Vietnam, with news of the impending grand prix in the capital Hanoi due to be confirmed today. A track will be built on the western edge of the city in time for the 2020 season.

Vietnam will be the first new venue that F1’s owners Liberty Media have added to the calendar since taking over the running of the sport from Bernie Ecclestone at the start of last year.

“People in the area have been asked for their opinions on holding the race and they have shown their support, to attract tourists,” Mai Tuen Dung, head of the government office in Hanoi, said.

Authorities said earlier this year they supported the idea of hosting a race, but would not dip into government coffers to pay for the event.

Mai Tien Dung said in August that he hoped costs could instead be covered by potentially “huge” advertising revenues. Officials had originally considered hosting the race around Hanoi’s scenic Hoan Kiem lake near the bustling Old Quarter, but decided instead on a route near the national stadium, where the roads are wider.