Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo said he was proud of racer Mario Suryo Aji's achievement at the United States Moto3 Grand Prix last April, where he started in 25th place and finished in 12th position.

The record surpassed Aji's previous best, which was 13th position at the 2022 Italian Moto3 GP.

"We are fascinated by Mario's international achievements. You must keep the spirit and confidence," Ariotedjo said while receiving Aji at the ministry's office here on Friday.

He further said that he will support Aji's training program at the Mandalika Circuit, West Nusa Tenggara, in addition to other technical matters such as visa application.

"I will coordinate with (related parties) for the need for a motorbike for training at the Mandalika Circuit. The government always supports you," he added.

It has been said that Aji will continue his training with a 600cc motorbike at the Mandalika Circuit in November this year, as part of his preparation for the next season of the championship.

Meanwhile, Ariotedjo said his ministry may cooperate with a private party to support Aji's training.

He also asked Aji to upgrade from Moto3 to Moto2 soon.

"Aji's potential is tremendous. We have to support and pray for him so that he can go up to Moto2," the minister said.

Meanwhile, Aji said he was grateful and thanked Minister Ariotedjo for his support.

"Thank you for your support. Hopefully, I can make history and succeed and make Indonesia proud," he added.

Aji is currently with Honda Team Asia for Moto3 2023. The 19-year-old is 25th in the provisional standings, with 4 points from eight previous races.

Aji was born in Magetan, East Java, on March 16, 2004. His talent as a racer was honed from the age of 7 by his late father Hartoto, a businessman and a former national motocross rider.

Related news: VP voices support for racer Mario Aji for Moto3 GP





Translator: A Adipati, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2023