German architect Hermann Tilke, a specialist in the design of F1 and MotoGP circuits, is currently working on a track in Palembang, South Sumatra. According to him, its facilities could host a motorcycle Grand Prix from 2019, which has not happened in Indonesia since 1997.
His company located in Aachen Tilke GmbH & Co. KG is designing this 4,311 km circuit in Palembang in parallel with the facilities which will host the Asian Games in September 2018.
A monorail is being built between the airport and the city center, which will allow spectators to go directly from the center to the circuit. The politicians who support this project aim to develop tourism in this part of Indonesia.
In an interview with speedweek.com, Hermann Tilke explained that “At the moment, we are studying the solidification of the ground and its elevation, because the ground is loose and the place is prone to flooding. Architects came from Singapore after the F1 Grand Prix to study the land. We are currently only planning the work. The first thing to do will be to consolidate the ground. »
There is talk of MotoGP in 2019, is it realistic? “ Currently, this is entirely possible. The Indonesians have negotiated with the boss of Dorna, but no contract has yet been signed. He first wants to see how things are progressing. This tour is financed by a private person. Dorna officials visited the site, including Franco Uncini, the head of security. For me, the 2019 deadline is perfectly realistic. On this date, everything will be in place. »
There was talk of the return of the GP to Sentul, where it had previously taken place. “ We worked on the concept of rebuilding Sentul. But the idea of a circuit in Palembang emerged because of the Asian Games. »
Photos and source: Tilke GmbH & Co. KG et speedweek. com
