BURIRAM, Thailand – Veda Ega Pratama is quickly making a name for himself in the fiercely competitive world of Moto3, and not just for his impressive on-track performance. The 17-year-old Indonesian racer has become the first rider from his nation to be sponsored by Red Bull, a partnership he hopes will pave the way for greater Indonesian representation in motorsports.
Pratama, who competes with Honda Team Asia, made a strong debut in the 2026 Moto3 season, finishing fifth at the Thailand Grand Prix on March 1, 2026, at the Buriram Circuit. The result was particularly noteworthy as he briefly held third position during the 19-lap race, showcasing his potential and aggressive riding style. He also secured the title of best rookie and top Honda rider in the series opener.
“I am very happy to be part of the Red Bull family and to be the first Indonesian rider sponsored by Red Bull,” Pratama said in an interview with Red Bull Content Pool. “I hope that in the future, more Indonesian riders and athletes will be supported by Red Bull. It would be very great, of course.”
Red Bull’s involvement in motorsports is extensive, spanning from MotoGP to Moto2 and Moto3, as well as supporting various extreme sports. The energy drink company’s backing is highly sought after by athletes, providing not only financial support but also access to world-class training facilities and expertise. For Pratama, the sponsorship represents a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Veda Pratama’s journey to Moto3 has been marked by consistent success. Born in Wonosari, Indonesia, he began riding minibikes at the age of five, inspired by his father, a competitor in the Supersport 600 National Championship. He quickly demonstrated a natural talent for racing, winning the Indonesian National Club Underbone Race Championship in 2019 and achieving multiple victories in the Astra Honda Racing School.
His talent soon attracted the attention of the Asia Talent Cup, where he competed as a wildcard entry in the Indonesian rounds of the 2021 season. Despite a crash in one race and a cancelled race due to logistical issues, Pratama impressed with top-ten finishes in two of the three races he contested.
He secured a full-time seat in the Asia Talent Cup for 2022, earning six podium finishes, including three race victories, and ultimately finishing third in the championship standings. Pratama continued his upward trajectory in 2023, dominating the competition and becoming the first Indonesian to win the Asia Talent Cup, securing nine victories out of twelve races.
Prior to his Moto3 debut, Pratama also competed in the JuniorGP and Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup, where he finished as runner-up, further honing his skills and gaining valuable experience against some of the world’s most promising young riders. This extensive background prepared him for the challenges of the Grand Prix paddock.
The transition to Moto3 with Honda Team Asia marks a new chapter for Pratama. The Moto3 class serves as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring MotoGP riders, known for its close racing and intense competition. The series features lightweight, 250cc motorcycles, demanding precise riding skills and tactical awareness.
Pratama’s fifth-place finish in Thailand was a promising start to his Moto3 campaign, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level. He’s not only representing Indonesia on the world stage but also carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see its athletes succeed in motorsports. His performance at Buriram, where he briefly challenged for a podium position, underscored his potential and determination.
The young Indonesian rider’s enthusiasm for representing his country is palpable. “I am very happy and enthusiastic to represent Indonesia in Moto3,” he stated. This sentiment resonates with fans across Indonesia, who are closely following Pratama’s progress and celebrating his achievements.
Looking ahead, Veda Pratama’s next challenge will be the upcoming races in the 2026 Moto3 World Championship. The schedule will take him to various iconic circuits around the globe, providing him with opportunities to further showcase his talent and compete against the best young riders in the world. Fans can follow his progress and stay updated on his results through the official Moto3 website and Honda Team Asia’s social media channels.
Veda Pratama’s story is one of dedication, talent, and national pride. As the first Indonesian rider sponsored by Red Bull, he is not only pursuing his own dreams but also inspiring a new generation of Indonesian athletes to reach for the stars. His success in Moto3 is a testament to his hard work and a beacon of hope for the future of Indonesian motorsports.
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