Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno on Sunday flagged off L'Etape Indonesia by Tour de France bicycle race held at Mandalika, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Province.

L'Etape Indonesia by Tour de France marked the revival of NTB tourism which had been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, he said.

"Let's support and make this activity a success. To all participants, please enjoy and stay safe," Sandiaga Uno said.

The international cycling event is expected to help recover the tourism industry and the community's economy which have been impacted by by the pandemic for the last two years .

The bike race is part of a series of activities organized ahead of the implementation of the Pertamina Mandalika Lombok MotoGP Circuit event scheduled for March 18-20, 2022.

"This is part of the preparations for the Mandalika MotoGP event," he said.

As the pandemic is not over, participants are obliged to comply with the COVID-19 health protocols by wearing masks, keeping a distance and washing hands to prevent the spread of the virus.

"We continue to maintain the health protocols," the minister noted.

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Meanwhile, Event Director of L'Etape Indonesia by Tour de France Zacky Badrudin said the

legendary bicycle race attracted road bike lovers to take part in the race.

A total of 1,308 athletes participated in the 124 kilometers and 84 kilometers distance race categories.

"This distance condition is in accordance with the condition of amateur cyclists in Indonesia. Hopefully this can boost the sports tourism climate in Indonesia and Mandalika in particular," he said.

On the occasion, Sandiaga Uno also participated in the L'Etape Indonesia using an Indonesia-made bicycle.