ITDC: Two Indonesian Racers Mark Revival Momentum for Mandalika MotoGP

The Operational Director of InJourney Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), Troy Reza Warokka, stated that the hosting of the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia is a significant momentum for the development of national motorcycle racing. The event, which will take place on 9-11 October 2026 at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, is even more special as it will feature two Indonesian riders in the Moto2 and Moto3 classes. “The most gratifying thing this time is that we have gained an extraordinary benefit. We have two Indonesian riders competing in Moto2 and Moto3, Veda Ega and Mario Aji,” Troy said during a media gathering with Local Heroes Indonesia at Artotel Gelora Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday (17/7/2026). According to Troy, the presence of Veda Ega Pratama and Mario Suryo Aji is proof that the Indonesian rider development process is beginning to show tangible results. Nevertheless, he reminded that both still have a long journey ahead to compete at the highest level of world motorcycle racing. “This proves that the seeding process and the journey of Indonesian athletes are not just empty talk,” Troy added. Troy assessed that the existence of the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit has become an important foundation in creating a national rider development ecosystem. According to him, the racing activities that take place almost every week at the circuit have produced many new talents, not only Veda Ega and Mario Aji. “Alhamdulillah, this circuit has activities every week, there are always races, even for four-wheelers. It’s not just Veda Ega and Mario Aji, but there are also other racers born from the routine agenda at the Mandalika Circuit,” Troy continued. Ahead of MotoGP 2026, ITDC together with InJourney continue to prepare the Mandalika area to meet international standards. Preparations are not only being made on the race track, but also on supporting infrastructure such as the airport, hotels, and other facilities. He added that all work, including repainting the track, is carried out following the regulations of the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) and Dorna as the MotoGP organiser. Troy is optimistic that this year’s Indonesian MotoGP event will receive a greater welcome compared to previous seasons. “The enthusiasm is extraordinary. It seems more spirited than last year because there are Indonesian riders. The proof is that ticket sales are quite good. Early bird tickets have sold out, and now ticket sales continue to show positive development,” Troy said. Indonesian rider Mario Suryo Aji is looking ahead to the Indonesian MotoGP series at the Mandalika Circuit with optimism after managing to return to competitive form following an injury. The Honda Team Asia rider said the support of the Indonesian people is a huge motivation ahead of the home race. “Preparations for Mandalika will probably involve training as usual. Now there are three weeks before the race, so we are using this opportunity to go home to recharge fully, meet family, while still undergoing training,” Mario said. Mario said his return to Indonesia is not only being used for training, but also to recover physically and mentally after a packed series of races in the World Championship. He said that a balance between training and rest is an important part of maintaining performance.