CHIANG RAI — The Tour of Thailand 2027 international cycling race has been rescheduled from March 24-April 2 to June 28-July 7 to avoid seasonal forest fires, haze and hazardous PM2.5 pollution in northern Thailand.
The event, officially titled The Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s Cup Tour of Thailand 2027, is being organised by the Cycling Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage in cooperation with Chiang Rai province. It will honour Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on the auspicious occasion of her 72nd birthday on April 2, 2027.
Gen Decha Hemkrasri, vice-president of the Asian Cycling Confederation, president of the ASEAN Cycling Federation and president of the Cycling Association of Thailand, said the race aims to promote competitive cycling, stimulate the local economy and boost tourism in Chiang Rai.
Chiang Rai Governor Chucheep Phongchai has confirmed the province’s full support for the event. The association assigned its technical vice-president, Wisut Kasiyaphat, known as Coach Tum, to survey and map the race routes. The men’s competition will consist of six stages, while the women’s race will feature three.
Following discussions between the association, the provincial administration and relevant agencies, organisers concluded that the original dates posed health risks because northern Thailand typically experiences severe haze and PM2.5 pollution from February through May.
Gen Decha said pollution during this period could make outdoor sporting activities hazardous for athletes. In previous years, the government had called for outdoor activities to be suspended during severe haze episodes.
Governor Chucheep said hosting the international race would help generate income for local residents and strengthen Chiang Rai’s tourism industry. However, he agreed that protecting the health of athletes and other participants had to take priority.
The Cycling Association has notified the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), Thailand’s Sports Authority and the National Sports Development Fund of the revised schedule. The change is intended to minimise disruption to the international racing calendar, particularly in Asia.
Gen Decha added that international cycling events are important for riders seeking ranking points towards qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Organisers therefore need to coordinate dates carefully to avoid disrupting participating teams and athletes from around the world.
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