Sports Tourism in Mandalika Has Become a New Attraction Apart from MotoGP

The Mandalika Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), continues to expand its appeal as a world-class tourist destination. Far from only relying on the MotoGP racing event, Mandalika is also developing sports tourism through construction of various sports facilities, including padel courts.

Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Taufik Hidayat confirmed that development of these sports facilities is not solely aimed at producing high-achieving athletes, but also to act as an economic driver for local communities through the sports and tourism industries.

"The government supports all sports facility development. This is not only about pursuing competitive achievements, but also growing a sports industry that delivers positive economic impact for the public," stated Taufik Hidayat during the official inauguration of the padel facility at The Mandalika, Central Lombok on Saturday.

According to Taufik, the Mandalika name is already widely recognised on the global stage. For this reason, the addition of sports infrastructure such as padel courts is expected to further solidify the region's position as a premier sports tourism destination.

"Modern leisure activity now centres heavily around sports, from recreational running to padel which has become a major global trend," he noted.

Beyond drawing tourist visitors, these sports facilities are also designed to nurture talented high-performing athletes in the future. However he reminded that this development process requires consistent time and effort, meaning all completed infrastructure must be properly maintained and utilised optimally.

"Visitors will not only travel here to watch MotoGP races, they will also be able to access and enjoy the complete sports facilities prepared across Mandalika," he added.

Mandalika Completes Its Sports Tourism Ecosystem

Meanwhile, Acting President Director of ITDC Ahmad Fajar stated that construction of these sports facilities forms part of the core strategy to strengthen Mandalika's brand as a tourist destination that integrates healthy active lifestyles with world-class international attractions.

"We are adding these sports facilities to establish Mandalika as a truly global destination, complementing the existing MotoGP event," he said.

The newly completed facilities currently include three dedicated padel courts and one full basketball court. These amenities complete the range of tourist activities that have already been developed across the Mandalika zone.

He further explained that visitors can now experience far more than just MotoGP races in Mandalika: they may also explore local culture, traditional arts, regional cuisine, and try out the full selection of available sports facilities.