RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) is intensifying preparations for the 2026 MotoGP at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, West Nusa Tenggara, by conducting benchmarking and operational coordination during the MotoGP round at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit in Buriram.

Indonesia is scheduled to host the next MotoGP round at Mandalika on October 9-11, 2026, with organizers aiming to meet the highest international standards both operationally and in motorsport safety compliance.

Vice President of Motorsport MGPA, Donny Mahardjono, explained that the team’s presence was not merely to watch the race but to engage in official meetings with the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), the International Road-Racing Teams Association (IRTA), and MotoGP Sport and Entertainment Group.

“We are focusing on operational benchmarking and motorsport coordination, particularly with FIM’s Safety Officer Bartolome Alfonso, to meet homologation requirements for Mandalika,” Donny said in a written statement from Mataram, Monday, March 2, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He noted several key points under review, including race electronics, run-off areas, track cleaning, and gravel specifications, all essential for securing Grade A circuit homologation.

MGPA President Director Pribadi Satria added that the visit also serves as a learning opportunity for staff development. “I encourage all MGPA employees, from vice presidents to entry-level staff, to engage directly with international stakeholders, to observe, listen, discuss, and make decisions," he said.

"This accelerates their learning process and strengthens their ability to manage events at Mandalika,” he added.

Pribadi highlighted that many MGPA employees have already been sent abroad for benchmarking and on-the-job training at various motorsport events, gaining valuable experience to be applied at Mandalika. “This exposure ensures our team can quickly adapt and execute tasks effectively,” he emphasized. ***