Erick Thohir Urges IMI to Develop Sport Tourism, Highlights MotoGP

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has encouraged the Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) to continue playing a role in developing the sport tourism ecosystem in the country. This follows President Prabowo Subianto’s emphasis on advancing sport tourism as a means to increase equitable economic growth across Indonesia. ‘Later, the President will certainly ask for more contribution from IMI for the automotive industry,’ Erick said in his speech at the 2026 IMI Awards on Wednesday (1/7/2026). Erick stated that the Ministry of Youth and Sports has synergised with the Ministry of Tourism to compile data on major sports events in Indonesia scheduled from now until 2029. The government stresses that sports events should not merely result in government spending without the host regions feeling the economic growth. ‘Because every country is competing to seek economic growth. This is where I am very pleased if IMI can be part of building sport tourism and the sport industry,’ he said. The Ministry and IMI have previously collaborated through the organisation of MotoGP at the Mandalika Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara over recent years. The Mandalika MotoGP series has proven successful, gaining significant appreciation and attention from the international community, generating an economic turnover of Rp 4.9 trillion each time it is held. Furthermore, the MotoGP event has historically nurtured talented local Indonesian riders, such as Doni Tata Pradita and Veda Ega Pratama. Erick added that his ministry is inviting IMI to participate in advancing the national automotive industry, including enhancing the function of the Mandalika Circuit not just as a racing venue, but as a facility to build the domestic automotive industry, especially as President Prabowo has pushed for Indonesia to stand on its own feet in the automotive sector. ‘When we talk about economic growth, we must also look at new potential for economic growth. We talk about resources, we talk about industry. But events are no less important for tourism and the economy,’ he explained. IMI Chairman Moreno Soeprapto said that the IMI Awards 2026 serve as a platform to appreciate talents who have prepared throughout the year to become national champions, making it an important moment for racers and key figures in the automotive field. ‘I used to chase points to get the national champion title, waiting to be called to the stage to receive the trophy. They are our next generation,’ he said. Moreno expressed hope that the champions would continue to make the nation proud through achievements at the international level, affirming IMI’s optimal contribution to the development of the racing world and the national automotive industry.