Hot on the heels of Vietnam securing their first Formula 1 race, the Philippines appears to be the next Asian destination being considered by Liberty Media
British publication The Independent reports a trademark for the ‘Philippine Grand Prix’ has been filed as a sporting event, broadcasting and merchandise purposes among other categories.
The nation made up of thousands of islands has never hosted a major international motorsport event but has built a racetrack outside the capital of Manila and that may be the possible target venue as the article suggests a ‘Manila Grand Prix’ trademark is also included.
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Having lost races in India, Korea and Malaysia in recent years, the Philippines may be part of a broader Asian push after a 2020 GP in Hanoi was confirmed and Liberty’s head of global sponsorship Murray Barnett recently hinted at the desire for a second event in China.
Several other new countries are also considering hosting F1 with Finland now conducting a feasibility study with Holland and Miami two other long-standing targets for Liberty Media.
The worry for some is whether this will come at the demise of traditional Grands Prix, with Britain and Italy facing uncertain futures, or simply be in addition to the already record-setting 21-race calendar.