Hanoi seeks hosting F1 race

AFP FILE PHOTO

HANOI — Hanoi is planning to bring the world-famous Formula One car race to the capital, Government Office chairman Mai Tien Dung confirmed last week.

During a press conference following a closed regular cabinet meeting, Dung said that the Law on Sports allowed Vietnam to host international sports events, including the F1 race.

Hanoi initially proposed to the Government to organize the race around the iconic Hoan Kiem (Returned Sword) Lake and along the adjacent streets in the city centre, but the idea was rejected after thorough reviews by both the city and ministries of planning and investment, and culture, sports and tourism.

The capital then wanted to host the game in the My Dinh sports complex in Nam Tu Liem District to take advantage of the existing infrastructure there, Dung said.

“This is very new to Vietnam but the authorities all support it. A green light has been given for Hanoi to approach the race organizers,” he said.

“The Prime Minister, however, asked Hanoi not to spend State budget resources but to call for the participation of the businesses to host the race.”