RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian mountain biking team is competing in Japan this weekend as part of its preparations for the 2026 Asian Games, using the race to gain experience on the same course that will host the continental event.

Five Indonesian riders are taking part in the MTB Coupe de Japon Aichi International 2026 in Aichi on March 14-15, 2026. The team consists of men’s riders Zaenal Fanani, Feri Yudoyono, and Ihza Muhammad, along with women’s riders Sayu Bella Sukma Dewi and Vara Sefti Rahmadani.

Fanani said the event carries special significance because the track in Aichi will also be used for the Asian Games, giving the athletes an opportunity to adapt to the course while testing their abilities against world-class competitors.

“We have prepared well. This year the competition schedule is quite busy, so we must be smart in maintaining our condition while taking advantage of every opportunity to compete,” Fanani said on Friday, March 13, as quoted by Antara

Before departing for Japan, the Indonesian Cycling Association (ICF) provided a briefing for the athletes on Wednesday, March 11, covering race strategies and an evaluation of the team’s competition program for the season. Fanani said the briefing was important to strengthen athletes’ mental readiness and tactical understanding ahead of international races.

Meanwhile, Sayu Bella Sukma Dewi is entering the race with confidence after strong results earlier this season. She won the Thailand Mountain Bike Cup Cross-Country Olympic on Jan. 14 and also performed well at the Asian Mountain Bike Series UCC India-1 held on February 26-28.

Sayu acknowledged that the race in Japan will be more challenging because it features elite riders from countries including China, Kazakhstan, and the host nation. The technical track and extreme obstacles also require a shift in mindset.

“In Japan the track is very technical, and the obstacles are quite extreme. I have to be braver and change my mindset,” she said.

She added that the early months of 2026 have been a period of adjustment as she now competes fully in the elite category after previously racing there only occasionally.

To improve her readiness, Sayu has also studied videos of international racetracks, including World Cup courses, as part of her mental preparation.

She said consistent participation in international competitions is crucial not only for experience but also for collecting ranking points toward qualification for the 2028 Summer Olympics.

Sayu also welcomed stronger support from the Indonesian Cycling Federation, particularly the clearer international competition schedule that helps athletes prepare more effectively for major events such as the Asian Games. ***