Prabowo Hosts Marquez, Young Riders at Merdeka Palace

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed 2025 MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez of Ducati Corse and young Indonesian riders Mario Suryo Aji and Veda Ega Pratama at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Tuesday (30/9/2025). The visit, ahead of MotoGP Mandalika 2025, underscores Indonesia’s commitment to sport tourism and nurturing new racing talent.

Boosting Sport Tourism and Young Talent

Minister of Youth and Sports Erick Thohir, who joined President Prabowo, highlighted the meeting’s significance. “President Prabowo met world champion Marc Marquez, an honor that emphasizes sport tourism’s role in national economic growth,” Erick said post-meeting. Prabowo urged Mario Aji (Moto2) and Veda Ega Pratama (set for Moto3) to lead Indonesia’s next generation of global racers, with MotoGP’s contract secured until 2031.

Marquez’s Excitement for Mandalika

Marquez, fresh off his seventh title at the Japan Grand Prix, expressed enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled to return to Indonesia after becoming champion three days ago. This is my first GP post-title, and I want to enjoy it. Mandalika is the best circuit with many fans,” he said. Despite two prior DNFs at Mandalika, Marquez, now pressure-free with Ducati, aims for his first podium at the Pertamina Mandalika Circuit on October 3–5, 2025.

Mandalika Schedule and Impact

The 2025 Mandalika MotoGP features free practice on Friday (3/10/2025), qualifying and sprint race on Saturday (4/10/2025), and the main race on Sunday (5/10/2025). This meeting elevates Indonesia’s status as a MotoGP host, boosting tourism and the economy. Sportrik analysis predicts a thrilling race, with Marquez a favorite and local talents like Mario and Veda inspiring youth.