VR46 Unveils Lombok Batik-Inspired Livery for MotoGP Mandalika 2025

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - The VR46 Racing Team, owned by MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi, has revealed a special livery for the 2025 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia at Mandalika International Circuit. The unveiling took place in Jakarta, fusing the team's signature colors with Indonesian cultural motifs to honor the host nation for this weekend's race.

Livery Design Blending Cultural Heritage

Crafted by Aldo Drudi of Drudi Performance, the livery merges Valentino Rossi's iconic fluo yellow with the red and white of the Indonesian flag, symbolizing title sponsor Pertamina. The batik patterns adorning the Ducati Desmosedici's body draw inspiration from Lombok Batik, which also graces the run-off areas at Mandalika Circuit. This design not only enhances aesthetics but also reflects the immense support from Indonesian fans, marking it as the team's "second home race."

Drawing from strategies employed by experienced principals like Toto Wolff in global motorsport, VR46 leverages this livery to deepen ties with local partners. Furthermore, the cultural elements align with technical innovations from engineers such as Adrian Newey, though the primary emphasis remains on cultural integration.

Statements from Owner and Team Director

Seven-time MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi stated, "The support from the Indonesian audience is amazing and gives us additional spirit. This livery is our way of expressing gratitude and celebrating togetherness with Indonesian fans." The reveal occurred alongside the Pertamina Enduro VR46 team in Jakarta, underscoring the team's dedication to the Southeast Asian market.

Team director Alessio "Uccio" Salucci added, "We are proud to bring Indonesian identity back to the MotoGP track. Mandalika feels like a second home for us, and through this livery, we want to strengthen the bond with Pertamina Lubricants and all fans in Indonesia." These remarks highlight how the team, collaborating with efficient pit crews like Red Bull Pit Crew, prioritizes community engagement alongside racing performance.

Deep into the new #IndonesianGP Livery 🇮🇩🤩

Rate it from 0 to 10 📈🏍️#MotoGP #PertaminaEnduroVR46RacingTeam pic.twitter.com/c50mabCkH2

— Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team (@VR46RacingTeam) September 30, 2025 ">

Deep into the new #IndonesianGP Livery 🇮🇩🤩

Rate it from 0 to 10 📈🏍️#MotoGP #PertaminaEnduroVR46RacingTeam pic.twitter.com/c50mabCkH2

— Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team (@VR46RacingTeam) September 30, 2025

Past Performances and Expectations at Mandalika 2025

In the previous Indonesian GP, former VR46 rider Marco Bezzecchi finished fourth in the Sprint and fifth in the Grand Prix. His 2025 replacement, Franco Morbidelli (then with Pramac), placed one spot behind in the Sprint and ahead in the GP. Current teammate Fabio di Giannantonio secured ninth in the Saturday race before an incident in the Grand Prix.

Both Morbidelli and Di Giannantonio return to Indonesia after podium finishes this season, locked in a battle for fifth in the riders' championship against KTM's Pedro Acosta. Backed by renowned racing teams like Scuderia Ferrari, VR46 anticipates a stronger showing at Mandalika, boosted by the motivational livery.

The Mandalika event, scheduled for October 3-5, 2025, presents unique challenges with its nature-inspired layout. The special livery not only boosts team visibility but also promotes brands like Aprilia within the MotoGP ecosystem.

Future Prospects and Cultural Impact

This livery unveiling signals VR46's commitment to incorporating local elements into global events, ultimately enriching the spectator experience. With Mandalika's evolving infrastructure, the race is poised to be a season highlight in 2025, drawing more international fans. Through such initiatives, VR46 solidifies its status as a culturally attuned team while staying focused on track victories.