Indonesia Sends Three Drivers to Asia Cross Country Rally 2026 in Thailand
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesia is sending three rally drivers to compete in the Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) 2026 in Thailand.
- The team includes experienced drivers Memen Harianto and Rudy Poa, and debutant Gema Suria in the car category.
- The rally covers approximately 2,000 kilometers, with a focus on consistent performance and representing Indonesia well.
Indonesia is set to participate in the prestigious Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) 2026, sending a team of three drivers to compete in Thailand from August 9-15.
The Indonesian contingent features a mix of experience and debut. Memen Harianto will compete in the T1G class driving a Toyota Hilux, while Rudy Poa will race a KTM motorcycle in the M2 class. Gema Suria is making his debut in the car category, specifically the T2AD class, piloting a Suzuki Jimny JB74 after previously participating in AXCR on two wheels.
The challenging rally will span roughly 2,000 kilometers, traversing from Pattaya to Phitsanulok. The team's vehicles are scheduled to be shipped to Thailand by July 28, with the drivers departing on August 7.
Preparations have been intensive, with months of testing and technical refinements focused on enhancing vehicle performance, durability, and reliability to tackle the demanding AXCR terrain. "This year we have made many developments compared to the previous season. Our focus is on improving the performance, durability, and reliability of the vehicle to cope with the very tough character of the AXCR track," stated Memen Harianto.
For Gema Suria, this marks his third year in the AXCR, his first time competing in a car after two previous appearances on a motorcycle. Rudy Poa, a seasoned competitor, is participating in his eighth AXCR, making him one of Indonesia's most experienced cross-country rally drivers. The team emphasizes consistent performance and upholding Indonesia's reputation throughout the event.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.