Indonesia Eyes Thrilling Return to World Rally Championship After 25 Years

Indonesia has formally expressed its interest in hosting a round of the World Rally Championship in the near future, marking a potential return to the global motorsport stage after a quarter-century absence.

The WRC Promoter met with the Indonesian Minister for Sport and Youth, Dito Ariotedjo, in the nation’s capital city Jakarta this week to discuss the possibility of Indonesia making a comeback to the WRC for the first time since 1997.

A Heads of Agreement for Indonesia to join the WRC calendar is currently being considered, with both parties keen to explore the opportunity for the country to host a round of the championship.

The potential return of Indonesia to the WRC has generated significant excitement among motorsport enthusiasts, with the country’s diverse landscapes and challenging roads offering a unique test for drivers and teams.

Indonesia’s previous experience in hosting WRC events dates back to the 1990s, with the country having staged a round of the championship from 1996 to 1997.

The WRC Promoter has been working diligently to expand the championship’s global reach, with recent additions to the calendar including new events in Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Indonesia’s interest in rejoining the WRC is seen as a significant development, given the country’s large and growing motorsport fan base, as well as its strategic location in Southeast Asia.

A successful return to the WRC would not only benefit Indonesia’s motorsport community but also provide a boost to the country’s tourism and economy.

According to Minister Ariotedjo, the Indonesian government is committed to supporting the development of motorsport in the country and is exploring various initiatives to promote the sport and attract international events.

The WRC Promoter has welcomed Indonesia’s interest in hosting a round of the championship, citing the country’s rich motorsport heritage and its potential to deliver a unique and exciting event.

As the discussions between the WRC Promoter and the Indonesian government continue, fans of the World Rally Championship are eagerly anticipating the possibility of Indonesia’s return to the calendar.

A decision on Indonesia’s potential hosting of a WRC round is expected to be made in the coming months, with the country’s motorsport community holding its breath in anticipation of a positive outcome.