The 2024 MotoGP Mandalika in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), was a roaring success, attracting not only the top motorcycle racers but also an enthusiastic crowd of 120,000 spectators. This iconic event took place over three days, from September 27 to 29, and marked a significant leap in attendance compared to previous years.
According to Priandhi Satria, Director of the Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA), the turnout exceeded expectations. Out of 134,000 printed tickets, 120,000 spectators scanned their tickets to enter the venue.
“We haven’t fully categorized daily attendance, but the total figure is based on the barcode scans at entry gates leading to the grandstands,” Priandhi stated, speaking to Antara on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
The numbers also align with the records kept by Dorna Sports, the global organizer of MotoGP. This year’s attendance reflects a substantial growth compared to 2023, which saw 102,929 spectators, and 2022, which had 102,801 attendees.
“There’s been a clear increase in the number of spectators compared to the last two years. 2024 has set a higher bar,” Priandhi added.
Beyond the sheer volume of spectators, the 2024 MotoGP Mandalika earned praise from Dorna Sports and the riders themselves. The track conditions were notably better than in previous years, with significant improvements in cleanliness, painting, and overall preparation. Priandhi highlighted the satisfaction expressed by both the event organizers and racers.
“They were pleased with how the track and its surroundings were maintained this year, particularly the upgrades in infrastructure and the use of local staff as marshals,” he explained.
The shift to employing local marshals was a key improvement for 2024. Previously, the event relied on external personnel, but this year’s focus on local talent was met with approval from all involved.
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In addition to the rising number of spectators, there was a marked increase in the number of passengers traveling from Bali to Lombok in the days leading up to the race. Passenger traffic surged by 26% between September 25 and 29, 2024, with 26,996 people making the crossing, compared to 21,413 during the same period last year.
The 2024 MotoGP also welcomed President Joko Widodo, who attended alongside several key figures, including State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir, Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo, Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Minister Azwar Anas, and Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno, who had arrived earlier to oversee preparations.
The event’s success not only highlights Indonesia’s growing prominence in the global sports arena but also underscores the potential for Mandalika as a premier destination for international sporting events. With the 2024 MotoGP Mandalika setting a new benchmark, the future looks even brighter for Indonesia’s role in motorsports tourism.
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