ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — Indonesia is betting once again on MotoGP as a powerful economic engine, with the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia expected to boost tourism, attract investment, and reinforce the country’s standing as a global sporting destination.
Set for October 9–11, 2026 at the Mandalika International Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara, the event marks the fifth consecutive year that Indonesia has hosted the world-class motorcycle racing championship since its debut in Mandalika in 2022.
Government officials say the race has evolved far beyond a sporting spectacle, becoming a strategic instrument for economic growth.
“This is not merely a sports event. It is a strategic tool to drive the economy,” Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Secretary Susiwijono Moegiarso said during the official launch of the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia in Jakarta on Thursday.
The economic impact has been substantial. The 2025 MotoGP Mandalika event generated an estimated IDR4.96 trillion ($300 million) in economic activity, driven by increased tourist arrivals, transportation demand, hotel occupancy, trade, and business activities involving local communities and enterprises.
According to Susiwijono, the event’s continued success reflects growing international confidence in Indonesia’s ability to host major global events.
“Not every country that can afford to host an event is trusted to do so. Trust is the key,” he said.
The government sees sports tourism as one of Indonesia’s emerging growth sectors. Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir said collaboration between the government, private sector, and communities has created a multiplier effect for the broader economy.
“We believe sport tourism and the sports industry have enormous potential to stimulate economic growth through collective spending and investment,” Erick said.
Industry leaders and regional officials also highlighted the broader benefits of the annual race.
Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) Chairman Moreno Soeprapto said MotoGP has helped accelerate the development of Indonesia’s automotive ecosystem while inspiring a new generation of racers to compete internationally.
Meanwhile, West Nusa Tenggara Deputy Governor Indah Dhamayanti Putri noted that more than 600 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) have been involved in supporting MotoGP-related activities, generating new income opportunities for local communities.
She added that the event has strengthened Mandalika’s appeal as a premier tourism destination while opening new investment opportunities across the province.
From a development perspective, National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) Deputy for Economy and Digital Transformation Vivi Yulaswati described sports tourism as a rapidly growing industry capable of generating significant economic value, creating jobs, and strengthening sustainable tourism and sports ecosystems.
With support from government agencies, businesses, and local communities, the 2026 MotoGP is expected to further cement Mandalika’s position as one of Asia’s leading sports tourism destinations.
“Alongside the roar of MotoGP engines, we hope Indonesia’s economic engine will continue to run even hotter,” Susiwijono said. (AT Network)
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