RRI.CO.ID, Mandalika – The hosting of the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara from May 1–3 2026, has had a significant impact on the local community. The presence of hundreds of international team crews and tourists has helped drive the local economy through the tourism sector and small businesses.

Hotels, lodging facilities, and food and beverage businesses around the Mandalika area experienced a surge in visitors during the race weekend. This economic activity created seasonal jobs and directly increased the income of local residents.

Pertamina’s Vice President of Corporate Communications, Muhammad Baron, stated that Pertamina’s involvement in this event is part of the company’s efforts to provide energy that not only supports community needs but also drives progress across various sectors, including sports and tourism. This involvement is seen as capable of expanding positive impacts on the well-being of the broader community.

“International events such as the GT World Challenge Asia at Mandalika demonstrate Indonesia’s readiness to host world-class events. For Pertamina, this form of support for motorsports is also part of efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s international profile, which has a positive impact on the national economy and tourism,” Baron explained, as quoted in a written press release received on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Baron’s statement aligns with the growing enthusiasm for motorsports, which is now opening up more opportunities for young national talent. The success of this event serves as a major motivation for the development of local athletes to continue excelling on the world stage.

Proud achievements were also made by Indonesian drivers competing at Indonesia’s flagship circuit. Sean Gelael from the Garage 75 team secured third place on the podium in the GT World Challenge Asia category. Meanwhile, Demas Agil from Dewa United Motorsports swept the top spot on the podium in both Race 1 and Race 2 of the BRZ Super Series support event.

This entire series of international races proves that Indonesia possesses world-class sports facilities and is capable of competing at the highest level. The positive impact felt by the community is expected to continue through upcoming global racing events. Mandalika has now officially become a new driving force for sustainable national tourism.