Indonesia Adopts Bubble System for 2021 World Superbike Championship

Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno delivers a press statement after a limited meeting in the preparation for the organization of 2021 FIBA Asia Cup and 2021 World Superbike, Indonesia Grand Prix, Wednesday (2/6), in Jakarta. (Photo by: PR/Agung)

In the preparation to host the 2021 World Superbike, Indonesia Grand Prix in Mandalika International Street Circuit in tourist destination island of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara in November this year, the Government has announced it will adopt a bubble system and strict health protocols in the series of the event.

“President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo underscored that the organization of the event, including the athletes, official crew, and spectators must adhere to strict health protocols despite the public’s high enthusiasm,” Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno said after a limited meeting in the preparation for the organization of 2021 FIBA Asia Cup and 2021 World Superbike, Indonesia Grand Prix, Wednesday (2/6), in Jakarta.

According to Sandi, 24 riders representing different countries will participate in this year’s World Superbike Championship. By adopting the bubble system, all teams, athletes, officials, and crew would be monitored regularly during the quarantine. Contact with outsiders would also be limited to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“The athletes should arrive at the venue five days prior to practice session. Before the departure, they must be fully vaccinated by one of six COVID-19 vaccines approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), and tested negative for COVID-19 in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Upon their arrival, they must stay in quarantine and be tested for COVID-19 several times. Through bubble system, Indonesia will be able to show the world that it is capable of hosting international event successfully by adhering to strict health protocols,” he said.

In addition to athletes, officials, and crew, the bubble system will also cover the spectators. Out of the capacity of the circuit which seats 20,000, the number of spectators will be determined from the latest COVID-19 cases in Indonesia and the decision will be announced later in November. The spectators must also go through COVID-19 tests and maintain discipline in adhering to the health protocols.

The Minister expressed optimism that the 2021 World Superbike and 2021 FIBA Asia Cup will lift the spirit of the public and to showcase that Indonesia has meticulous preparation to host international events during the pandemic.

The events, he added, are also expected to boost Indonesia’s economic growth and rebuild tourism sector. (TGH/UN) (RAS/MUR)