Speaking to the media at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday night (September 30), Thohir emphasized that President Prabowo views the Indonesia MotoGP at Mandalika Circuit, Lombok Island, as a key driver of sport tourism.
“Among the president’s directives was to advance sport tourism, given its significant impact on both sports and the economy. The Mandalika Circuit alone has generated nearly Rp4.8 trillion (US$287 million) in economic impact,” Thohir said.
He added that tickets for the Indonesian GP, scheduled for October 3–5, are nearly sold out.
Thohir also noted that President Prabowo had instructed his aides to focus on developing Indonesia’s core sports and supporting young athletes in gaining international exposure.
Specifically, the president called for expanding opportunities for athletes to train abroad and improve their global competitiveness.
“It is our duty to follow up on President’s instruction. We will explore ways to enable more athletes to compete or train overseas,” Thohir said.
He also highlighted the president’s concern for the long-term welfare of athletes and coaches, stressing the need to prevent economic hardship after retirement.
President Prabowo, he added, praised the ministry’s initiative to establish pension funds for athletes and coaches.
Thohir further spotlighted the upcoming Indonesian GP, noting that many figures—including legendary rider Valentino Rossi—regard Mandalika as a great but challenging track.
The 2025 season will mark the fourth MotoGP race at Mandalika since its debut in 2022. Indonesia’s InJourney Tourism Development Corporation has secured an agreement with Dorna Sports to host the event through 2031.
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Translator: Mentari D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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