Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister of Thailand, currently under suspension but wearing her other hat as the Minister of Culture, couldn’t contain her pride. Rushing to her official Facebook page, known as Ing Shinawatra, she posted both a beaming congratulatory message and a collection of jubilant photos of herself alongside the triumphant Tern. “Congratulations to Tasanapol ‘Tern’ Inthraphuvasak on his historic victory in the F3 Championship British Round Sprint Race 2025 at Silverstone Circuit, UK. He is the first Thai to achieve this win,” she wrote, her enthusiasm undoubtedly shared by her many followers.
The 20-year-old prodigy from Campos Racing represented a beacon of hope and determination, a vivid illustration of where perseverance can lead. His journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment and the sort of dedication that serves as an exemplar for Thai youth and aspiring athletes globally. Shinawatra further pledged her full support in helping bring dreams like Tern’s to fruition, cheering on not just him but all those who dare to dream.
Inthraphuvasak, emanating from a lineage steeped in the thrill of motorsports, carries forward a proud legacy. His father, Vutthikorn Inthraphuvasak, once graced the GT racing circuits. Tern’s own journey from being the runner-up in the 2017 Asian Kart Open Championship and the 2018 IAME Asia Series to his karting debut in 2013 has been nothing short of meteoric. Moving to the UK at the tender age of 14 to chase his racing dreams only set the stage for his eventual ascent to the European and American circuits by 2019, culminating in participation in the FIA Karting European Championship’s OK-Junior category.
After an impressive debut in the F3 arena with PHM AIX Racing in 2024, which saw him land a podium finish in Budapest and tally nine points overall, Tern made a strategic move back to his roots with Campos Racing for the 2025 season. This decision proved to be golden, as his mastery of speed and precision won him the coveted crown at Silverstone, marking a historic first for Thailand.
As if the story weren’t compelling enough, Tern found inspiration in Thai-British F1 driver Alex Albon. “When I was growing up and I started racing, he was doing GP3 and F2 and I was early in karting,” Tern shared in an interview, looking back on his role model, whom he watched soar to success, becoming an embodiment of possibility for young drivers like himself.
From karting chaos to the structured challenges of Formula 3, Tern Inthraphuvasak’s journey highlights not just a personal victory, but an important chapter for Thailand on the global motorsport stage. As engines roared and spectators cheered at Silverstone, one could feel an uncontainable energy in the air—a possible harbinger of more successes for the Land of Smiles.
This win at Silverstone is more than just a personal triumph for Tern; it stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations of Thai athletes. His story is a vivid reminder that with passion and perseverance, even the loftiest of aspirations can become reality. His journey is testament to the spirit of dedication, and as Tern blazes his trail across the racetracks of the world, one thing is abundantly clear: he is driving a legacy of dreams fulfilled.
Congrats to Tern! Finally, a Thai driver making waves in motorsport. It’s about time someone united the nation in this niche sport!
While it’s a big achievement, let’s not forget motorsport is still inaccessible to most due to the high costs involved.
True, but isn’t that a reason for celebration? Tern’s victory could inspire changes and investment that make the sport more accessible.
I believe Tern’s win is a great motivational story for aspiring Thai athletes. Passion sometimes beats finances.
I wonder if Tern will move up to F2? It’s the logical next step, right?
It’s like Alex Albon all over again! History repeats itself.
Tern’s win at Silverstone is not just historic, but also a testament that hard work pays off—even if he was inspired by Albon, he made his own path!
Another Asian driver in the limelight means more diversity. It’s crucial for the sport’s global appeal.
Absolutely! Diversity brings healthy competition and a variety of driving styles to the forefront.
This win can teach kids the power of perseverance. It mirrors what I tell my students daily—dream big.
Tern’s talent is undeniable, but didn’t his dad’s influence help him along the way?
What’s wrong with having a little guidance? We all need mentors or inspiration, especially in sports.
I get that, but it’s just something to consider in balance with his natural talent.
Finally, Thailand gets to shine on the global motorsport map! Here’s hoping for an F1 seat in the future.
F1 is a whole different ball game. Let’s not rush this new talent. Experience in F3 will serve him well first.
The Prime Minister’s involvement seems odd to me. Does motorsport really affect culture or politics?
Sports can unify and empower nations, so yes, the impact on culture is significant and can transcend politics.
Fair point, sports certainly have a way of bringing people together.
Everything Tern achieves is a reflection of potential and capability inherent to Thai people. So proud!
While this is an impressive win, let’s not forget the economic challenges facing Thai athletes. More needs to be done.
Shouldn’t we have local circuits to nurture talents like Tern? A domestic platform can really work wonders.
Absolutely, a robust local scene is crucial for burgeoning talent to showcase and hone their skills.
Inspirations like Tern can transform public perception of racing as a career in Thailand!
I wish Tern all the best, but motorsport isn’t big in Thailand. Can one man change that?
It’s a proud moment for Thailand. First Nitchaon in badminton and now Tern in motorsport—diversity in our achievements!
Winning a race is one thing, but keeping consistent performances up is crucial if Tern wants a real shot at F1.
Consistency will come; he just needs the right support system moving forward.
I always wondered why few Asians in racing. Hope Tern’s win changes perceptions!