MotoGP riders and teams have arrived in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, ahead of the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia scheduled for 3–5 October 2025 at the Mandalika International Circuit. Their arrival at Lombok International Airport on Tuesday afternoon (30 September) was marked by a warm local reception.
MotoGP Riders Welcomed in Lombok Ahead of Mandalika Race
Children carrying Indonesian flags welcomed the international guests, while the traditional Sembek ritual was performed. The practice, which involves placing a red betel nut mark on the forehead, symbolises a prayer for safety and smooth proceedings.
Later that day, Mataram City’s main streets turned into a festive procession route. Thousands of schoolchildren in colourful uniforms lined the roads, waving flags as gendang beleq drums provided a rhythmic backdrop.
Pickup trucks carrying riders, including Francesco Bagnaia, Marco Bezzecchi and Indonesian hopeful Mario Aji, slowly passed through the cheering crowds. The riders waved, signed jerseys and greeted fans, while young spectators expressed pride at seeing their sporting idols on their home island.
For Lombok residents, the parade was not only a celebration but also a symbol of global recognition. Hosting the MotoGP has placed Mandalika on the world map as a venue for both high-level racing and sports tourism.
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
Ticket Sales and Community Participation
By the end of September, organisers reported that around 87 per cent of tickets had been sold, while the official ticketing platform indicated that more than 90 per cent of categories were booked. With a capacity of 121,000 seats, the strong sales reflect considerable enthusiasm for the event.
Ticket prices range from Rp 400,000 (£19.50) for standard entry to Rp 1.75 million (£85) for Premium Grandstand A.
More exclusive options, such as the VIP Deluxe Class (Rp 15 million/£730) and the VIP Luxury Tent (Rp 7.75 million/£375), were also close to selling out. Special discounts of up to 50 per cent for West Nusa Tenggara residents and civil servants have been credited with helping local participation.
Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir said the level of public interest demonstrated the wider economic benefits of the event.
“We can see in Mandalika now, the economic impact is almost Rp 4.8 trillion,” he told Kompas.com. “Even tickets sold to date are almost sold out, reaching 90 per cent. This is a positive thing for Indonesian sports tourism.”
The Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) has also emphasised that the event is not solely about racing.
Its president director, Priandhi Satria, said the wider festival seeks to strengthen Mandalika’s profile as a tourism hub. “We want Mandalika to become a world-class sports tourism destination, featuring not only racing but also entertainment and cultural experiences for visitors,” he said in a written statement.
The Economic Impact
The 2025 MotoGP Festival will offer concerts, traditional performances, school competitions and family-oriented activities. Entry tickets priced from Rp 150,000 (£7.30) give fans access to areas such as the sprint race podium and fan zones.
On 3 October, the programme includes a modern dance competition and performances by Crossover Band and Amtenar.
The following day will feature traditional dance competitions, the IPDN Marching Band and performances from Guyon Waton and Dewa 19. On 5 October, the MotoGP Opening Ceremony will be followed by the main race and concerts by Moluccan Soul and Nassar.
While enthusiasm is high, logistical challenges remain. Only 25 shuttle buses will run between Mataram, Lombok Airport and the circuit. Organisers have warned that careful traffic management is needed to avoid congestion from private vehicles.
Wristband exchange counters have been established at several points to speed up ticket collection and reduce queues on race days.
The government and organisers view the event as part of a broader economic strategy. Alongside ticket revenue, the festival is expected to generate spending on accommodation, food, transport and souvenirs, benefitting local communities and small businesses.
Priandhi said he was confident the impact would be felt well beyond the circuit. “We are optimistic that the resulting multiplier effect will support the economy of the communities surrounding the circuit, from MSMEs to the tourism sector,” he added.
