MANDALIKA, Indonesia — MotoGP returns to Indonesia next weekend, with the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia scheduled to take place at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit in Lombok from October 9 to 11, 2026.
For tourists staying in Bali, the race offers a relatively easy opportunity to combine a holiday on the island with one of Southeast Asia’s biggest motorsport events.
The Mandalika circuit sits on the southern coast of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, and the official MotoGP calendar confirms three days of racing activity beginning Friday, October 9.
When is the main race?
Friday is primarily dedicated to practice sessions across Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP.
MotoGP Free Practice 1 is scheduled for 10:45 a.m. local time, followed by MotoGP Practice from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday, October 10, features MotoGP qualifying in the morning, followed by the Tissot Sprint at 3 p.m.
The main race takes place on Sunday, October 11.
Moto3 is scheduled to race at noon, Moto2 at 1:15 p.m., while the MotoGP Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. local time. All times are WITA, the same time zone used in Bali.
The schedule remains subject to change, so visitors should check the official MotoGP schedule before travelling to the circuit.
Tickets are still available
Official tickets for the Indonesian Grand Prix remain available through MotoGP’s ticket platform and the Mandalika event ticketing website.
Visitors who purchase e-tickets through the local event platform should note that tickets must be exchanged for a wristband or ID card before entering the circuit.
Organisers say ticket exchange is available from October 2 to 11 at three locations, and visitors are required to bring both their e-ticket and identification.
MotoGP also offers premium packages that can include grandstand seating, paddock tours, team garage experiences, rider appearances and VIP hospitality.
How to get to Lombok from Bali
Tourists travelling from Bali have several options.
The fastest is generally to fly from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali to Lombok International Airport, located in Praya.
The Mandalika circuit is on the southern side of Lombok, while Lombok International Airport is also in Central Lombok, making flying a practical option for visitors whose main purpose is attending the race.
Travellers can also reach Lombok by sea.
Public ferries operate between Padangbai in East Bali and Lembar in Lombok. Indonesia’s official tourism website says the crossing usually takes around four to five hours and allows passengers to bring motorcycles and cars.
Fast boats are another option, with services operating from Bali departure points including Serangan and Padangbai to Lombok and the nearby Gili Islands.
Tourists travelling specifically for MotoGP should allow additional time for transfers and possible congestion during race weekend.
Where should visitors stay?
For those attending multiple race days, staying in or around Mandalika and Kuta Lombok is generally the most convenient option.
MotoGP’s official destination guide notes that Lombok has hotels, resorts and other accommodation options around the island, including properties close to Mandalika. Special accommodation and camping options may also be available around the circuit during the MotoGP weekend.
Visitors planning a last-minute trip should book accommodation as early as possible, as demand typically rises around major race weekends.
Those staying farther away, including Senggigi or Mataram, should factor additional road travel into their plans.
What is the Mandalika circuit like?
The Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit is a 4.3-kilometre track featuring 17 corners — 11 right-handers and six left-handers — with a longest straight of 723 metres.
The MotoGP race is scheduled over 27 laps, covering a total distance of approximately 116 kilometres.
The circuit opened for international racing in 2021 and has hosted MotoGP since 2022.
Its location near Mandalika’s coastline also makes it unusual among MotoGP venues, with beaches and hills surrounding the racing complex.
What should tourists bring?
Visitors should prepare for strong sun and changing tropical weather.
MotoGP’s destination guidance recommends carrying sun protection as well as an umbrella or rain jacket because weather conditions can change quickly. Insect repellent is also recommended.
A hat, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, comfortable shoes and a portable phone charger are also practical for a full day at the circuit, subject to the organiser’s entry restrictions.
Visitors should also keep their ticket, passport or other valid identification easily accessible.
Those travelling from Bali should avoid planning a tight connection back to the island immediately after Sunday’s race, as traffic leaving Mandalika and demand for onward transport may be heavy.
For anyone already holidaying in Bali, the October 9–11 race weekend offers a chance to see MotoGP without leaving the region — but accommodation, transport and race tickets are best arranged before arriving in Lombok.
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this article may contain minor inaccuracies
in names, locations, or event details. Readers are welcome to contact the editorial team for any clarification.