Indonesia Responds to MotoGP Boss' Stand Against Quarantine

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno in a press conference on Monday made it clear that Indonesia’s quarantine policy will apply to every international visitor and does not exempt the MotoGP entourage of officials, crew, and racers. 

“I would like to firmly convey here that Indonesia is a lawful country, one that has implemented Covid-19 control measures that adhere to what is deemed best,” said Minister Uno on January 17. 

Uno’s statement came as a direct response to the threat of cancellation on the Mandalika MotoGP round issued by Dorna Sports boss Carmelo Ezpeleta who says he can cancel MotoGP races in a country if quarantine is mandatory. Ezpelata was responding to Novak Djokovic’s drama at the Australian Open.

The Tourism Minister reminded that Indonesia has met all of its obligations related to the MotoGP contract and that threatening to cancel the event due to quarantine procedures will not be accepted. 

He explained that the quarantine procedure comes under a travel bubble which will specifically subject the MotoGP entourage to where they can continue to prepare for the racing event amidst a quarantine period. 

Such a travel bubble is also applied to G20 delegations, as Indonesia is hosting the Presidency, which the Minister claims to be successful as it helps serve the goal of both parties. He then called for people to remain optimistic about the MotoGP event and expects it to be held as planned. 

Read: Mandalika MotoGP Supporting Facilities All Ready, Says Jokowi

M FAIZ ZAKI | ALI HIDAYAT