Lombok. Despite boasting millions of fans in Indonesia and having made numerous visits to the country for various promotional events, MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi has yet to set foot at the Mandalika Circuit.

This absence continued over the weekend as the circuit on the resort island of Lombok hosted its third MotoGP race. Even with his team, VR46 Racing, having secured sponsorship from the local lubricant brand, Pertamina Enduro, Rossi's presence was notably missing.

The 45-year-old Italian retired a year before Mandalika held its inaugural MotoGP event in 2022. However, Rossi remains a prominent figure in the MotoGP world through his team and is often seen at various circuits, cheering on his riders from the paddock. Mandalika, however, has been a significant exception.

VR46 Racing Team manager, Pablo Nieto, acknowledged the importance of Rossi’s presence in Indonesia and expressed optimism about a future visit.

"Next year, he will come here for sure, 100 percent guaranteed," Nieto assured local journalists at Mandalika.

Nieto explained that Rossi's absence this weekend was due to a scheduling conflict with his participation in the FIA World Endurance Championship. This same commitment has kept Rossi from visiting Mandalika for the past two consecutive MotoGP race weekends.

Pertamina Enduro recently signed a three-year contract with VR46 Racing Team, which saw the team adopt a new livery featuring the brand's signature red and white colors.

"We understand that Valentino has many fans in Indonesia, and he always enjoys his visits to this country," Nieto added.

Rossi gained widespread popularity in Indonesia through his appearances in several Yamaha motorcycle advertisements, often alongside local comedian Komeng. His famous Indonesian catchphrase, “Semakin di Depan” (further ahead), became a favorite among local fans and was emblazoned on Yamaha bikes during his years as an active MotoGP rider.