The MotoGP world heads to the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia this weekend (October 3–5, 2025), where the spectacular Mandalika International Street Circuit in Lombok will once again host one of the most awaited weekends in the calendar. The 4.3-kilometre track, with its 17 corners and stunning coastal backdrop, has quickly become a fan favourite since joining the calendar in 2021.
Marquez the Champion, But Still Hungry
Marc Marquez arrives in Indonesia as the newly crowned 2025 World Champion, having sealed his seventh premier-class title at Motegi last weekend. With the pressure of the title fight behind him, all eyes will be on whether the Spaniard can finally tame Mandalika, where he has never previously scored a meaningful result. A victory here would underline his dominance in what has been a remarkable season.
Bagnaia vs. Alex Marquez for Runner-Up
The riders’ championship may be decided, but the fight for second place in the standings remains intense. Francesco Bagnaia, reinvigorated after a strong showing in Japan, has his sights set on overhauling Alex Marquez in the points table. The duel between the factory Ducati rider and the Gresini star could provide one of the weekend’s fiercest storylines.
Martín Sidelined
Last year’s champion, Jorge Martín, will not take part in Mandalika. The Pramac rider fractured his right collarbone in a sprint race crash at Motegi and has already undergone surgery. Current regulations mean he won’t be replaced this weekend, removing one of the grid’s most interesting contenders from the equation.
The Track and Tyre Challenge
Mandalika’s unique layout presents a blend of fast sweepers and heavy braking zones, particularly at Turns 1 and 10. The abrasive surface is notorious for putting tyres under strain, and Michelin has made subtle adjustments to the medium front compound in response. Managing tyre wear across both the sprint and the main race will be crucial, especially in the scorching Indonesian heat.
Teams and Riders with a Point to Prove
In Honda HRC Castrol, Joan Mir’s return to the podium in Japan gave the team a boost. The factory Honda squad sees Mandalika as an opportunity to back up recent progress. With Luca Marini alongside Mir, both riders will be keen to shine in front of Indonesia’s passionate Honda fan base.
Yamaha‘s Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins have a strong history at Mandalika, with Quartararo claiming podiums here in both 2022 and 2023. Yamaha will look to capitalise on the circuit’s characteristics to claw back ground in a challenging season.
But let’s not forget some emerging talents: Pedro Acosta, Franco Morbidelli, and Fabio Di Giannantonio are all locked in battles for top-five positions in the championship, giving them added motivation to deliver standout performances this weekend.
More Than Just Racing for Indonesia
For Indonesia, MotoGP is not just a sporting event but a showcase of global stature and tourism appeal. The government has extended hosting rights for Mandalika until at least 2031, cementing its place on the calendar. Local authorities are actively promoting the event, offering discounted tickets for Lombok residents and civil servants to ensure packed grandstands.
Since its debut, Mandalika has established itself as one of the most vibrant and scenic stops on the MotoGP world tour. With passionate fans, stunning surroundings, and a circuit that challenges riders to the limit, the 2025 Indonesian GP promises another weekend of breathtaking action, even if the title is already wrapped up.