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Indonesia Rises to First MotoGP in 25 Years
Indonesia Rises to First MotoGP in 25 Years – Indonesia will host its first motorcycle grand prix in 25 years on Sunday (20 March). Convinced that the surroundings of the new track will be forgotten once the race starts. The archipelagic nation of 270 million people is crazy about motorbikes. There’s a lot to choose from on two wheels – and there’s a palpable sense of excitement at the prospect of a return to world-class racing. Even President Joko Widodo is a fan and tried the Mandalika International Road Circuit when it officially opened in November. By riding a custom-made green Kawasaki bike. This Sunday’s race is the second stop on the 2022 MotoGP calendar
After the opening race in Qatar two weeks ago, it was won by Enea Bastianini of Italy. This new 4.3 km long circuit sits on a white sandy coastline on the island of Lombok. Which wants to rival its more famous neighbor, Bali, as a tropical getaway destination. The track complex is part of that ambition. There is great anticipation but also anxiety and challenges – the series is part of a mega-tourism infrastructure project condemned by the United Nations for the eviction of families. Some refuse to leave and are still camping on the road trip in November.
Organizers Continue to Improve Mandalika Circuit
When the track became the home of the World Superbike race that same month, there were masters about the track surface. Riders during MotoGP testing in February made similar complaints. Saying the track is dirty and damaged is dangerous, with debris, stones, and rocks in its track. Turns are of particular concern. World champion Fabio Quartararo has been called a “total disaster”. Organizers dismissed the fear as a problem and carried out urgent resurfacing in several places. And sure, the track is now in top condition.
“The condition that has to be repaired is the asphalt peeling off, so there is no grip for the drivers. This work was completed on March 9. All the work was 100 percent completed,” Cahyadi Wanda, vice president of the Mandalika Grand Prix Association, told AFP. Wikanto Arungbudoyo, a MotoGP fanatic, remains adamant.
“I want to know what the riders have to say about the re-paved track. Will we get positive feedback from them, or maybe the problem will get worse? Indonesia is very capable of holding a Grand Prix here.” he added.
The country hosted the motorcycle Grand Prix in 1996 and 1997 near the capital city of Jakarta. But his ambition to become a mainstay of the sport was undermined by the Asian financial crisis. For all the amazing track views and excitement, there is another controversy.
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