September 30, 2025 | 10:04 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed Spanish MotoGP star Marc Marquez at the State Palace in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir said Marquez expressed his honor at meeting the Indonesian leader.
“The President met with MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez, who said he was honored to be received,” Erick told reporters at the palace.
Indonesian riders Mario Suryo Aji (Moto2) and Veda Ega Pratama (Moto3) also attended the meeting. According to Erick, Prabowo encouraged both riders to keep pursuing their racing careers, noting that Indonesia holds a MotoGP hosting contract until 2031.
“This is not just about watching MotoGP. It is about nurturing the next generation,” Erick said.
Prabowo also emphasized the importance of boosting sports tourism, which Erick said has already delivered significant benefits. He cited the Mandalika Circuit’s estimated Rp 4.8 trillion economic impact, adding that tickets for the 2025 Mandalika MotoGP are nearly sold out.
“The demand is very strong. Tickets are almost gone, this is a very positive sign,” Erick said.
The minister added that he shares Prabowo’s vision of strengthening Indonesia’s sporting achievements by encouraging more athletes to train and compete abroad. He also noted that the president welcomed discussions on establishing a retirement fund for athletes and coaches, though the proposal remains under review.
For his part, Marquez said he was delighted to return to Indonesia shortly after clinching the MotoGP world title just three days earlier. He highlighted Mandalika as a special venue.
“Mandalika is the best circuit, and this country is the best place to enjoy it. Let’s see if we can make the most of the Mandalika GP,” Marquez said.
The Indonesian MotoGP at Mandalika Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara is scheduled for October 3–5, 2025. According to InJourney Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), ticket sales have already reached 87 percent.
“Sales keep rising, especially for Grandstand A and B. Everything is on track, and we are committed to ensuring the event runs better and safer than last year,” said ITDC Director of Operations Troy Warokka in Central Lombok. He added that tickets are also being allocated for local residents around the circuit.
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