Persija Jakarta has confirmed its commitment to participate in the 2026 President’s Cup, despite uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s schedule and format.
The announcement was made by Persija President Mohamad Prapanca during a press conference introducing South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong as the club’s new head coach for the 2026–27 season. The event was held at the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) on Monday, 8 June.
Prapanca said the club remains committed to taking part in the annual pre-season competition, although organisers have yet to release detailed information regarding this year’s edition.
“We are still waiting regarding the league schedule. Of course, every year we always have the President’s Cup. But what I know is that the schedule has changed this season,” said Prapanca.
“Of course, we have given a commitment to contribute to the President’s Cup, although the exact schedule has not been released. What is certain is that it will be there,” he added.
The President’s Cup has become one of Indonesia’s most prominent pre-season tournaments since its introduction in 2015. Outside the COVID-19 period, the competition has only been absent twice, in 2016 and 2023.
Tournament Format Yet to Be Confirmed
While the tournament is expected to return in 2026, organisers have not officially announced the competition format.
The President’s Cup has undergone several changes over the years. Initially contested exclusively by top-flight clubs, the tournament expanded in 2017 to include teams from Liga 2. In 2024, the number of participants was reduced to eight clubs before being cut further to six teams in 2025.
The 2025 edition also introduced international participation, featuring England’s Oxford United and Thailand’s Port FC alongside an Indonesian All-Star team.
Reports circulating ahead of the 2026 edition suggest the tournament could return to an eight-team format, with several overseas clubs potentially invited. Teams reportedly linked with participation include Port FC, Singapore’s Lion City Sailors, Malaysia’s Johor Darul Ta’zim, and Brunei’s DPMM FC.
However, Prapanca said Persija has not yet received official information regarding the competition structure.
Shin Tae-yong to Discuss Pre-Season Plans with Management
Beyond the President’s Cup, Persija is also considering additional pre-season activities to help build squad chemistry ahead of the new campaign.
Prapanca said discussions with Shin Tae-yong would determine the club’s preparations, including training schedules and possible friendly matches.
“Of course, regarding pre-season needs, the schedule of friendly matches, I will have to discuss with the coach regarding when the team will gather and what the schedule will be,” said Prapanca.
“From there, I will know which commercial side is suitable for conducting pre-season activities,” he added.
The appointment of Shin Tae-yong marks a significant change for Persija ahead of the upcoming season. The former Indonesia national team coach replaces Brazilian Mauricio Souza, whose contract was not renewed at the end of the previous campaign.
According to club management, discussions with Shin began in April, with negotiations continuing during the closing stages of the 2025–26 season.
“Hopefully, our choice will be a turning point for Persija’s future,” Prapanca said.
Prior to Shin’s arrival, Persija had already released seven foreign players and is expected to strengthen its squad during the transfer window. One of the names linked with the club is Mariano Peralta.
Jakarta Governor Welcomes Appointment
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung also welcomed Shin Tae-yong’s appointment, expressing hope that the South Korean coach can lead Persija to future success as the capital prepares to celebrate its 500th anniversary next year.
“Yes, first of all, I would like to congratulate Shin Tae-yong on being selected as Persija coach. Coincidentally, next year marks Jakarta’s 500th anniversary,” Pramono said on Monday.
Meanwhile, South Korean media reports have highlighted the role of Hyundai in facilitating Shin’s move to Persija.
Hyundai Motors Indonesia became an official partner of Persija in October 2025 through a strategic sponsorship agreement. As part of the partnership, Hyundai’s logo appears on the back of Persija’s match shirts, while the company also provides operational support aimed at strengthening the club’s professional management.
South Korean outlet Newsworker reported that Hyundai’s presence may have played a role in encouraging Shin to continue his coaching career in Indonesia following his departure from the national team.
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