Sean Gelael racer gets podium three in the first GTWCA Mandalika race

Indonesian racer Sean Gelael (right) receives a trophy after finishing in the first three positions of the GT World Challenge Asia at the Pertamina Mandalika Circuit, West Nusa Tenggara, Central Lombok, Saturday, May 2. (Antara - Akhyar Rosidi)

LOMBOK TENGAH - Indonesian racer Sean Gelael managed to reach the podium by finishing in third place in the first race of the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia which took place at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, Lombok West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), on Saturday (2/5).

"The podium in Mandalika is certainly a special result, especially when it is achieved at home," said Sean Gelael after the race at the Pertamina Mandalika Circuit in Central Lombok, Saturday, as reported by Antara.

This result is a positive start for Sean with the Garage 75 team in the GT World Challenge Asia racing weekend which uses a two-race format.

The race was competitive from the start. The character of the Mandalika track with 17 turns demands consistency, tire management, and a precise pit stop strategy.

Sean Gelael who started the race from the front line or the first start was able to maintain the rhythm of the race and take advantage of the momentum in the important phases to secure the podium position.

"The competition was very tight from the start. I was aware that I would be penalized as a Silver class rider and solo, and the team had prepared a good strategy," he said.

The racer who received support from Pertamina launched it was in the first position since the start. However, after entering the pit line to change tires, his position dropped to sixth, because he had to follow the race regulations.

"Unfortunately the Safety Car ruined our hopes to win. But finishing on the podium has made me very happy," said Sean Gelael.

In the first race, which was quite tight, the first podium was taken by the Chinese rider Yu Kuai, with a best time of 1 minute 28.5 seconds.

The second position was occupied by the New Zealand rider Jaxon Evans who paired with Indonesian rider Andrew Haryanto with the Audi Sport Asia Team Phantom team in the Pro-AM class with a score of 1 minute 28.7 seconds.

Pertamina Lubricants President Director Sigit Pranowo assessed that this result was a positive momentum for Indonesian racers in global racing events.

"Sean's podium in Mandalika shows that Indonesian riders are able to compete at an international level. Pertamina Fastron is proud to support Sean's struggle and continues to be committed to being part of the development of Indonesian motorsport on the global stage," he said.

The second race of the 2026 GT World Challenge Asia Mandalika will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2026.