The FIM Academy’s Mentoring Programme has reached an important milestone in Indonesia, concluding a three-year project that has transformed the way that officials and marshals are trained at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit.
Launched in 2023, the initiative set out with clear objectives: to prepare the next generation of Clerks of the Course, Sector Chiefs, Race Control personnel, and trackside marshals, while also supporting the Indonesian Motorcycle Federation (IMI) in building long-term education strategies and training materials for the future.
A Structured Path to Growth
The first phase took place in July 2023, led by FIM Mentor Simon Maas, CCR Member and FIM Steward from Australia. Senior IMI officials and local marshals participated in three days of training that blended classroom instruction with trackside simulations, covering everything from flag duties and radio communication to Race Control management.
Later that year, just before the Indonesian MotoGP™, Phase Two focused on entry-level marshals. Over two days, participants rotated between classroom learning and on-track exercises, while more advanced sessions in Race Control refined decision-making and command processes. The professionalism of the Mandalika marshals during the Grand Prix confirmed the rapid progress made.
The following two years of training were also conducted inside the operations of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship allowing participants to put new skills into practice under the pressures of a real racing environment.
Training the Trainers
As the project evolved, the emphasis shifted to sustainability through a “Train the Trainer” approach. This strategy ensured that the knowledge gained would remain within IMI and Mandalika Circuit, equipping senior marshals to train new recruits and creating a solid structure for the years ahead.
The results speak for themselves, with a permanent Senior Officials structure now established at Mandalika, three Indonesian FIM CCR Superlicence holders, Chief Marshal and Sector Chief systems supported by training materials in Indonesian, and strengthened Race Control and Clerk of the Course roles that have raised standards to an international level.
One of the most inspiring outcomes has been the development of IMI’s Clerk of the Course. Starting with no prior experience, he has grown into a confident and capable leader of the Mandalika marshals, embodying the true impact of the mentoring process.
A Lasting Legacy
Reflecting on the journey, project Mentor Simon Maas expressed both pride and satisfaction: “The FIM Mentor Programme has been a huge success. The progress made by using the mentor format has clearly provided an excellent outcome. I am very proud of the project, and also very proud of the Indonesian officials who have been involved and developed their skills.”
Three years may have passed quickly, but the legacy is lasting. Indonesia now stands as a model of how mentoring can elevate standards, build capacity, and leave behind a stronger, more sustainable foundation for the future of motorcycle sport.