It’s a fervor that never fades. Every time a MotoGP rider visits Indonesia, popular success is guaranteed. Marquez's visit to this strategic emerging country for the motorcycle market has once again demonstrated this. There were crowds to see him on a scooter and doing laps of the Sentul track with a CBR250RR. So imagine one day performing with the RC213V…
In the meantime, the 2016 World Champion met the country's possible next generation by making a detour to theAstra Honda Racing School Indonesia, an incubator set up by the world’s leading manufacturer which welcomes fifteen young drivers: “ I am happy to return to Indonesia, eight months after the presentation of our bike for the 2016 season. Because this time, I come back with the title! I was able to celebrate it with a terribly enthusiastic and warm audience. When it comes to young riders, Honda is doing a great job giving them the opportunity to realize their dream. Perhaps in the future we will have to fight against one of'them ! »
« I also had a lot of fun shooting with the CBR250RR on the Sentul track. The crowd in the stands was incredible. I can't even imagine what it would be like if we had a Grand Prix here. That would be madness! I just regret that Dani couldn't be with me here. I hope he comes back to us quickly ".
The idea of a Grand Prix in Indonesia is still in the works. It was hoped for 2017 with a contract until 2021, but there is still a way to go to approve this Sentul route designated for the opportunity: “ Indonesia has been part of our projects for a long time " recognised Carmelo Ezpeleta. " It's a great country, with significant growth in the motorcycle sector. It is an important country for us. The Indonesian government wants to host a MotoGP race. We explained to them that this would require the essential infrastructure as well as the approval of the circuit. ».
Steps that remain to be taken: “ Sentul Circuit needs to undergo a lot of improvements. We have seen many circuits make significant changes. Can Indonesia improve its own or build a new one? We hope the government will act quickly. We will provide them with all the necessary support to make the event a success » promised the same boss of DORNA.
The last Indonesian Grand Prix took place at Sentul in 1997 and was won by Valentino Rossi in 125cc, Max Biaggi in 250cc and Tadayuki Okada in 500cc. In the area, however, there is Thailand which has managed to set up its international route Buriram. An excursion that Superbike is pleased to include in its calendar. Otherwise, there is of course Malaysia and its route. Sepang which will be the attraction of this weekend. With brand new coating in some places.
