By: Qurratul Aini)*
The MotoGP event, which was held for the first time at the Mandalika Circuit, West Nusa Tenggara, went smoothly. The public really appreciates the government who has struggled to build an international-class racing arena in Indonesia.
From March 18 to 20, 2022, the community was very enthusiastic because there was a MotoGP race which was being held for the first time in NTB, precisely at the Mandalika Circuit. They are enthusiastic about watching, either via television, internet streaming, or coming directly to Lombok. It’s only natural that people’s enthusiasm is very high because the last international race in Indonesia was held 25 years ago in Sentul, Jakarta, so they really miss it.
During the race in 3 days, first there is a warm-up session, then Moto 3, Moto 2 matches, then the main one is MotoGP. On March 20, 2022, it was the most exciting session because the audience packed the stands and waited for their idol racers to compete. Although some were a little disappointed that Marc Marquez could not take part in the race due to health reasons (concussion) but they were still happy because they could watch live in their homeland.
In the main MotoGP race, the winner was Miguel Oliveira, who was initially less than a champion, but was able to finish the fastest with a time of 33 minutes 27.223 seconds. While the runner-up was Fabio Quartararo who was championed by many people, after they failed to support Marquez.
The MotoGP Cup was handed over directly by President Jokowi and the public cheered because they saw their beloved president in NTB. He was watching directly there as well as handing over the trophy. The racers were happy to meet President Jokowi again after a few days before having an audience at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta.
The audience really appreciated the MotoGP performance because it went smoothly. Even though on the third day of the race, lightning struck and it rained, but the committee managed it well. The race continued even though it was a bit delayed. The wet track did not reduce the agility of the racers to conquer the corners at the Mandalika Circuit.
The community is very proud of the Mandalika Circuit because this arena is much better in quality than the Sentul Circuit. After being built for several years and continuously improving, both the asphalt and other facilities, this circuit is getting better. It has even complied with international standards and received grade A homologation.
The enthusiasm of the people to come directly to NTB is also very high. More than 60,000 tickets were sold out. They praised the greatness of the Mandalika Circuit and its clean stands. In addition, the race also takes place without any drama or obstacles that make it fail. Everything went smoothly until the final stage (the handover of the trophy by President Jokowi).
The large number of spectators who come to NTB proves the appreciation of the community. They are already hungry for entertainment, especially since MotoGP is an international event that cannot be missed. With this race, people can momentarily unwind in the midst of a dizzying pandemic.
The audience who only watched from the screen also appreciated the Mandalika MotoGP. They are happy because television is filled with quality racing broadcasts. While watching, they cheered on each other’s drivers and thanked the government and CEO of Dorna for organizing an exciting event at the weekend.
The MotoGP race at the Mandalika Circuit is highly appreciated by the public because they can see the beauty of an international class circuit as well as watch racing events that increase adrenaline. The government has worked hard to organize MotoGP so it should be appreciated. Next year there will be another series and see you at Mandalika.
)* The author is a contributor to Pertiwi Institute
