Veda Ega Pratama Sets Sights on Americas Race After Historic Moto3 Podium
Austin, Texas – Veda Ega Pratama isn’t allowing his groundbreaking podium finish in Brazil to distract him. The young Indonesian rider is already turning his attention to the upcoming Moto3 Americas race at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, aiming to build on his historic performance and continue his impressive start to the 2026 season.
Pratama etched his name into the history books on Sunday, March 22nd, 2026, securing third place at the Autódromo Internacional Ayrton Senna in Goiânia, Brazil. This result marks the first time an Indonesian rider has reached the podium in a Grand Prix motorcycle race, a milestone celebrated across the nation. The 17-year-vintage’s achievement follows a strong debut race at the season opener in Thailand, where he finished fifth.
“Of course, I will attempt my best, I will do my best in the next race,” Pratama said following the Brazilian Grand Prix, as reported by various Indonesian news outlets. “It will be a new circuit for me, but I have confidence because this week I was able to fight with the front group. I will try to improve on the mistakes I made this week and try to be better in America next week.”
The Moto3 race in Brazil saw Pratama overcome early challenges. Starting from the third position on the grid, he initially dropped back to tenth place. However, a timely red flag – a race suspension due to an incident on the track – allowed him to regroup and capitalize on the restart, ultimately securing the third-place finish behind Maximo Quiles of Spain and Marco Morelli of Argentina. The red flag situation, while disruptive, provided a crucial opportunity for Pratama to reassess his strategy and rejoin the leading pack.
A Historic Achievement and Rising Championship Standing
Pratama’s success in Brazil has not only brought national pride to Indonesia but has also significantly boosted his position in the Moto3 World Championship standings. The 27 points earned from his fifth-place finish in Thailand and the podium in Brazil now place him third overall in the championship, demonstrating a remarkable start to his Grand Prix career. This early success positions him as a legitimate contender for the title as the season progresses.
The outpouring of support for Pratama has been significant, particularly from within Indonesia. Entrepreneur Gilang Widya Pramana, known as Juragan 99, publicly congratulated Pratama via Instagram, praising his historic achievement and offering a financial bonus of Rp25 million (approximately $1,600 USD as of March 23, 2026). This gesture highlights the growing enthusiasm for motorsports in Indonesia and the recognition of Pratama’s talent.
Facing a New Challenge at COTA
The Circuit of the Americas presents a new set of challenges for Pratama. The 3.426-mile (5.515 km) track, known for its technical layout and challenging corners, will be a first-time experience for the Indonesian rider. COTA features a mix of prompt sweeping turns and tight, technical sections, demanding both speed and precision from the riders. The track’s elevation changes also add to the complexity, requiring riders to adapt their braking and acceleration points.
Despite the unfamiliarity of the circuit, Pratama remains optimistic. He believes his experience fighting at the front of the pack in Brazil will provide valuable preparation for the Americas race. He intends to analyze his performance in Brazil, identify areas for improvement and apply those lessons to his approach at COTA. The ability to quickly learn and adapt to new circuits is a crucial skill for success in the Moto3 World Championship.
The Moto3 class is known for its competitive nature, with numerous riders vying for podium positions. Pratama will face stiff competition from established frontrunners like Maximo Quiles and Marco Morelli, as well as other rising stars in the series. His ability to consistently challenge for the lead will be key to maintaining his position in the championship standings.
The Americas race weekend will begin with practice sessions on Friday, March 26th, followed by qualifying on Saturday, March 27th, and the race itself on Sunday, March 28th. The Moto3 race is scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM Central Time (UTC-5), providing a prime viewing opportunity for fans around the world. Fans can follow live updates and results on the official MotoGP website and through various sports news outlets.
Veda Ega Pratama’s journey is a testament to the growing talent within Indonesian motorsports. His historic podium finish in Brazil has not only inspired a nation but has also established him as a rider to watch in the Moto3 World Championship. As he prepares for the challenges of the Circuit of the Americas, Pratama carries the hopes of Indonesia with him, determined to continue his impressive start to the season.
Next up for Veda Ega Pratama is the Moto3 Americas race at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, on March 28th. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of Pratama’s season and the Moto3 World Championship.
