Eric Thohir, the President of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), announced that the PSSI 2026 Awards are not merely a celebration but a comprehensive tribute to everyone who has contributed to the development of football in Indonesia. Thohir emphasized that this event serves as a platform to appreciate all individuals who have played a role in building the game, including players, referees, sponsors, and local communities.
The event was held at Studio 6 Emtek in Jakarta, attended by the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, the President of Emtek Group, Sutanto Hartono, along with several prominent figures in the football world, such as national coach John Herdman. Thohir pointed out that the event is part of the celebration of the 95th anniversary of PSSI's founding, making it a historic occasion.
Details of the Event
The PSSI 2026 Awards included the presentation of 17 awards across various categories, with international player Jay Idzes winning the award for Best Player, while Marcelino Ferdinand was honored as Best Young Player. Additionally, Rizki Ridho was awarded for Best Goal, and Yans Sayuri received the award for Best Assist. In the goalkeeper category, Martin Paes was named Best Goalkeeper, while Iris De Roux was recognized as Best Female Player.
Moreover, Safira Ika was honored as Best Female Player, and Claudia Alexandra Shoniman was awarded Best Young Female Player. The award for Best Save went to Emil Audero. In the refereeing category, Thoriq Munir Al-Katiri was chosen as Best Referee, and Fuad Qahar was named Best Assistant Referee. The PSSI Association in East Java received the title of Best Regional Association.
Background & Context
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) was established in 1930 and is considered the governing body responsible for organizing football in Indonesia. Over the years, Indonesian football has faced numerous challenges, including issues of corruption and mismanagement. However, the efforts made to develop the game at all levels, from grassroots to professional, have contributed to improving the overall state of the sport in the country.
The PSSI 2026 Awards are part of a larger strategy aimed at promoting football in Indonesia, seeking to provide support and recognition to everyone who contributes to the development of the game. This event reflects the association's commitment to enhancing the sports culture in the country.
Impact & Consequences
The PSSI 2026 Awards are seen as a positive step towards enhancing sportsmanship in Indonesia. By honoring all participants in the game, more individuals are encouraged to engage in football, whether as players, referees, or fans. This type of recognition can lead to increased investments in the sport, contributing to improved infrastructure and the development of young talents.
Furthermore, this event fosters relationships among various stakeholders in football, which can lead to greater collaboration between clubs, sponsors, and government bodies. Ultimately, this dynamic can contribute to improving the level of Indonesian football on the international stage.
Regional Significance
Indonesia's experience in organizing the PSSI Awards serves as a model for Arab countries seeking to promote football in their nations. Arab countries can benefit from this model by organizing similar events to honor players and contributors to the development of the game. Such events can enhance the status of football in the Arab world and contribute to the development of young talents.
In conclusion, the PSSI 2026 Awards represent an important step towards promoting football in Indonesia and emphasize the significance of recognizing all participants in this popular game. The commitment to developing the sport can lead to future successes at both local and international levels.