Indonesian Finance Minister Prefers Argentina for World Cup, Sees Economic Boost

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa revealed his preference for Argentina to win the 2026 World Cup, even though he admits to not being a football enthusiast. He shared this sentiment after meeting with the Governor of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, in Yogyakarta on Thursday.

"I'm not a football fan, but I think I prefer Argentina," Purbaya told reporters. While he does not follow football closely, the minister acknowledged the positive economic impact of the World Cup, even in Indonesia. He suggested that the tournament's momentum can increase economic activity, especially for small businesses.

"For the economic increase – the economy of small eateries. So if people watch together that day, or if they make Argentina jerseys, Spain's will also sell," he said. However, Purbaya stressed that the economic benefits from major international sporting events are short-lived. He asserted that national economic growth must be supported by strong domestic demand and government initiatives that stimulate local economic activity.

"What's important is ourselves, maintaining domestic demand is the most important. It can help occasionally, but not much. What's important is that our programs are good to keep driving domestic economic growth," he concluded.