Several MotoGP riders have begun arriving in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), ahead of the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026 at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Central Lombok.
The riders arriving at Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport (BIZAM) in Central Lombok on Monday (October 5) were welcomed with a distinctive display of NTB’s local culture. The reception was part of efforts to introduce the region’s cultural richness and hospitality to MotoGP riders and crews from around the world.
The riders were welcomed not only with the traditional Sasak Genggong music, but also with a performance of Gendang Beleq, one of Lombok’s traditional arts known for its energetic and vibrant drum performances.
The atmosphere became even more festive with local communities dressed in traditional Lombok and Sumbawa attire. They lined up to welcome the riders as a gesture of respect while showcasing the cultural diversity of West Nusa Tenggara.
Among the riders arriving in Lombok were Alex Rins, Enea Bastianini, Francesco Bagnaia, Jack Miller, Jorge Martin, Marco Bezzecchi, Maverick Vinales, Raul Fernandez, and Toprak Razgatlioglu.
Head of the West Nusa Tenggara Tourism and Creative Economy Office, Ahmad Nur Aulia, said the cultural performance and traditional attire were expressions of local hospitality as well as an opportunity to introduce NTB’s cultural identity to the international community.
“Through the MotoGP momentum, we want to show that NTB is not only home to a world-class circuit, but also rich in culture and traditions that offer a unique attraction. Welcoming the riders with Genggong, Gendang Beleq, and communities dressed in traditional Lombok and Sumbawa attire reflects the identity and hospitality of the people of NTB in welcoming guests from around the world,” Ahmad Nur Aulia said.
He said MotoGP was not merely an international sporting event, but also a strategic opportunity to promote NTB’s tourism and creative economy sectors.
“We want the riders, crews, and all visitors not only to experience the atmosphere of MotoGP racing, but also to gain a closer experience of the culture and hospitality of the people of Lombok and Sumbawa. This is part of our tourism promotion efforts,” he said.
Ahmad Nur Aulia expressed hope that MotoGP would generate broader benefits for tourism and the creative economy, including accommodation, culinary businesses, transportation, MSMEs, as well as tourist attractions and destinations across Lombok and Sumbawa.
“We must make the most of this momentum. MotoGP serves as a showcase for NTB to introduce its tourist destinations, culture, cuisine, and creative economy products to both domestic and international visitors,” he added.
The welcome featuring Genggong, Gendang Beleq, and traditional Lombok and Sumbawa attire symbolized the combination of sport tourism and local cultural heritage.
The presence of the world-class sporting event is expected to further strengthen NTB’s position as one of Indonesia’s leading tourism and sport tourism destinations.
With the arrival of the first riders, the MotoGP 2026 atmosphere in Lombok is beginning to intensify. Beyond witnessing the world’s top riders compete on the circuit, visitors are also being invited to discover the natural beauty, culture, traditions, and warm hospitality of the people of West Nusa Tenggara.
