Indonesia's President's Cup 2026 Expected to Boost Economy and Football Talent

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian expressed optimism that the 2026 President's Cup football tournament will deliver significant economic benefits and foster football talent development. Speaking at the tournament's opening ceremony in Bandung, West Java, Karnavian stated his hope that the event would entertain the public and stimulate economic growth, drawing parallels to the impact of the World Cup.

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We hope it will have a similar effect to the World Cup by providing entertainment for people across Indonesia. I also believe it will help stimulate economic growth.

The minister highlighted the potential for the President's Cup to boost the economy, particularly by supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He emphasized that a well-organized competition could also serve as a crucial platform for identifying and nurturing future players for the Indonesian national football team, ultimately strengthening the country's soccer prospects.

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At the same time, we can develop our athletes and make this tournament a platform to identify future national team players so that we can become even stronger.

Housing and Settlements Minister Maruarar Sirait, who chairs the tournament's steering committee, noted that the 2026 edition is larger than its predecessors. He pointed to an increase in prize money for the champions, from Rp5.5 billion to Rp6 billion, and praised the improved organization of MSME areas around the stadium, which he believes enhances the overall tournament atmosphere.

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I've seen that the management of MSMEs is much better. The designated areas are better prepared, and the atmosphere is more vibrant.