MATARAM, Indonesia — Thousands of residents packed the streets of Mataram as West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) hosted the official MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Rider Parade on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, marking the fifth consecutive year the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit has hosted the international racing series.
The parade route ran from Jalan Pejanggik to Teras Udayana, drawing local crowds who gathered to welcome elite international riders including Franco Morbidelli, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Marco Bezzecchi, Máximo Quiles, and Indonesian Moto3 prospect Veda Ega Pratama.
Cultural exchanges and community engagement highlighted the pre-race festivities:
- Cultural Integration: Returning riders were greeted with traditional Sasambo arts, including the Harmony of Sasambo dance and interactive Gendang Beleq percussion performances.
- Global Sport Tourism Anchor: NTB Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal noted that the warmth of the local community and regional cultural heritage continue to distinguish the Mandalika circuit on the global calendar.
- Local Participation: Domestic fans and youth groups joined the parade along Teras Udayana, reinforcing local support ahead of race week operations.
Provincial authorities reaffirmed that integrating cultural diplomacy into major international sporting events enhances long-term brand identity for The Mandalika as a premier sport tourism destination.
